Public accuracy tests (also called logic and accuracy or L&A tests) are mandatory pre‑election verification steps where officials test‑count known ballots on production equipment using the actual election‑programming to confirm accurate tabulation before going live. HAVA and VVSG require these tests to use ballots representative of the election contests, with detailed logs of test ballots, results, and observer verification; failure to conduct, document, or preserve these tests leaves no independent check that machines were correctly programmed for the election.

This subsection highlights documented deficiencies in public testing, including absent test logs, unrepresentative test ballots, or skipped procedures, which create a gap between certification and actual election‑day performance.