Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas has notified town clerks Thursday that the state is shipping them fire suppression devices to place inside absentee ballot drop boxes, with the expected delivery Thursday and Friday.
Her office says the action is “pro-active” and not a reflection of threats in Connecticut.
Her message:
“In cooperation with the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), your town will receive fire suppressor(s) that are easily mounted and can be installed inside your absentee ballot drop boxes easily. We have taken this step to help protect Connecticut against the activities that occurred in Washington and Oregon earlier this week. Securing our election is of utmost importance.
“The devices will be delivered to your office TODAY or TOMORROW. There is no need to make a special trip to the drop box for installation; the devices may be installed the next time you empty the receptacle. Installation instructions are included.
“If you don’t receive your package by end of day Friday, please be in touch.”
The office had no immediate comment on the cost, source of funding or details on the devices.
Republican State Chairman Ben Proto questioned the need.
“It seems there is a much easier way to do this: Every town hall has a fireproof vault in the clerk’s office. Just get rid of the drop boxes and have them come inside,” Proto said.
Most city and town halls will be open until 6 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday for early voting.