- The Landtag is getting an electronic voting system
The state parliament aims to introduce an electronic system for so-called roll-call votes in the plenary session. Currently, each MP is individually called upon in such cases. In the future, this should be possible at the push of a button. Preparations for the new system are expected soon.
"A technical foundation will be created to allow MPs to identify themselves using their ID card on a new keypad at their tables," a parliament spokesman said in response to a query. However, the parliament's rules of procedure will need to be adjusted before the new system can be fully utilized.
The new voting process will work as follows: MPs will identify themselves using their ID card at the device on their table in the plenary hall - for example, by inserting the card. They will then be able to vote "Yes", "No", or "Abstain". Currently, a roll-call vote, according to the current rules of procedure, is conducted by calling the names of the members of the state parliament, with the voters responding with "Yes" or "No" or explaining that they are abstaining.
This elaborate form of voting is the exception. Normally, voting is done by a show of hands, as there are usually no dissenters within the individual factions. However, a roll-call vote can be requested by a single faction at any time. With the current 195 MPs, this process can take a long time.
The basis for the new system will be installed during the renewal of the discussion and acoustic equipment in the plenary hall. The existing technology is over 20 years old and, according to the state parliament, "will be renewed to create a stable system at the latest technological level with improved acoustics."
The parliamentspokesperson highlighted that adjustments to the parliament's rules of procedure will be necessary for the full implementation of the new electronic roll-call system. The technical foundation of the new voting system will include a device at each MP's table for identification using ID cards, streamlining the roll-call process.
