Georgia voting machines will keep QR codes for 2026 election, new recount rule added

Georgia voting machines will still include QR codes on printouts for the 2026 general election, according to Atlanta News First. This follows a legislative change delaying the end of QR code use for vote tabulation until January 1, 2028.

The delay came after lawmakers passed Senate Bill 3EX in a special session, moving the original 2026 deadline set by Senate Bill 189. The new law also established a state committee tasked with recommending new election equipment specifications based on hand-marked paper ballots, with a report due by January 31, 2027.

In addition to the QR code extension, the new law requires a full hand recount for certain statewide races decided by a margin of 0.5% or less. This recount rule applies to contests for governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, attorney general, state school superintendent, and several other statewide offices when those contests appear first or second on the ballot.

Separately, Atlanta News First explained how Georgia election officials maintain chain of custody for voting machines. This includes tracking and verifying seal numbers on ballot markers and scanners before and during voting, with procedures to address any seal irregularities. Voters are also advised to carefully review their printed ballots and report any discrepancies before scanning.

These measures come as Georgia prepares for a critical election year with major statewide and federal races on the ballot, underscoring efforts to ensure election security and accuracy.

What we're watching: How the state committee's recommendations will shape future voting equipment and election procedures in Georgia.