B.C.’s municipal politicians were so hotly divided about whether to allow Internet voting for the 2018 local elections that they had to hold an electronic vote to tally the results. In the end, it was a squeaker, with 51.1 per cent of delegates at the Union of B.C. Municipalities convention voting in favour of the resolution and 48.9 per cent against. The resolution calls on the UBCM to request the B.C. government to “initiate analysis and legislative changes” to encourage more voters — especially the elderly, disabled, snowbirds and those working in camp — to participate in the democratic process.
… A similar resolution for Internet voting was made in 2011, prompting four recommendations by the Independent Panel on Internet Voting in 2014.
Those recommendations spoke against universal Internet voting for municipal or provincial elections, or limiting it only to people with accessibility challenges. The report also warned there were substantial risks to the accuracy of the voting results.
Those opposed to online voting argued the move does not protect the sanctity of the secret ballot, and could lead to badgering by spouses to vote a certain way. Others worried about security.
Full Article: B.C. to pursue Internet voting at municipal elections.