RAVBM - computer-assisted ballot access
California has a partly-computerized ballot system called Remote Accessible Vote by Mail System (RAVBM) that allows you to use an app from the ROV to fill out your ballot . To protect voter privacy the app must be downloaded and then run disconnected from the internet.
You can Read the FAQ HERE. at https://elections.cdn.sos.ca.gov/vote-by-mail/pdf/ravbm-faq.pdf
Here's how it works::
If you are registered to vote in Santa Clara County, you can request from the ROV to use the RAVBM Ballot system.
You can make the request starting 29 days before election day.
- Under California law any registered voter can use the RAVBM system
- BUT It's designed mainly for those with disabilities and military or overseas voters.
So YES, you CAN use RAVBM on your computer or tablet at home, BUT - only to read, fill out, and print your ballot on paper
- BUT: (here's the partly-computerized part)
- RAVBM is NOT an online VOTING app. You must download and install the app on your computer or tablet (no phone version)
- You CAN NOT return your completed ballot via the Internet (To preserve your privacy and security, since the internet is not securely private)
- When you're finished filling out your ballot on your computer, you must:
- 1. Print out your completed ballot,
- 2. Place the printed ballot in the original Vote by Mail envelope that was mailed to you with your vote-by-mail ballot,
- 3. Sign the outer envelope, and
- 4. return it to the Registrar of Voters by mail, drop box, or in person in time for your ballot to be counted.
Check it out details here: RAVBM.