2022-2025 Election Security .gov Email Domain Subgrant Renewal Announcement

Enhancing Election Security: Wisconsin’s .gov Email Domain Subgrant Renewal

The Wisconsin Elections Commission (WEC) is reinforcing election security across the state with the renewal of the 2022-2025 Election Security .gov Email Domain Subgrant. This initiative provides vital funding to assist municipalities in transitioning to more secure email domains, such as wi.gov or .gov, a critical step in safeguarding the integrity of election communications. Here is a comprehensive overview of the program and its benefits.

Background and Purpose

In May 2024, the WEC approved the continuation of the Election Security .gov Email Domain Subgrant. This program is funded under the federal Help America Vote Act (HAVA), which aims to improve the administration of federal elections by enhancing election technology and implementing robust security measures. The subgrant allocates up to $600 per jurisdiction to offset expenses incurred during the transition to secure government email domains.

Secure email domains play a pivotal role in protecting sensitive election-related communications from potential cyber threats. By using a standardized .gov or wi.gov domain, municipalities can enhance the credibility and security of their communications, ensuring that election processes remain transparent and trustworthy.

Program Overview

The 2022-2025 Election Security .gov Email Domain Subgrant offers reimbursement for eligible expenses incurred during the transition to a secure email domain. Jurisdictions must submit a properly completed Subgrant Reimbursement Request and Certification form to receive funding. Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis until the total program funding of $300,000 is exhausted.

Key details of the program include:

• Grant Period: August 24, 2021, through December 1, 2025. Only expenses incurred within this timeframe are eligible for reimbursement.

• Application Deadline: All reimbursement requests must be submitted by 4:30 PM on December 1, 2025.

• Eligibility: Municipalities that have not previously received this subgrant may apply.

Authorized Uses of Funds

The subgrant covers expenses directly related to transitioning to a wi.gov or .gov email domain. Eligible costs include:

1. Domain Transition Expenses: Costs for acquiring and setting up a wi.gov or .gov email account.

2. IT Consulting Fees: Fees associated with technical assistance during the transition.

3. Email Hosting: Monthly costs for hosting services associated with the new domain.

4. Domain Maintenance: Costs for maintaining the previous email domain during the transition period.

It is important to note that this funding is not intended for routine election-related expenses. Municipalities are encouraged to review the 2022-2025 HAVA Election Security .gov Email Domain Subgrant Reimbursement Request and Certification form for detailed guidelines on eligible costs.

Application Process

To apply for the subgrant, municipalities must:

1. Complete the 2022-2025 HAVA Election Security .gov Email Domain Subgrant Reimbursement Request and Certification form.

2. Submit the completed form via email to electionsdomain@wi.gov by the deadline.

The application form and additional program information are available on the WEC’s Election Security .gov Domain Page at https://elections.wi.gov/election-security-wigov-and-gov-domains.

Why This Matters

Transitioning to a secure email domain is a significant step in enhancing election security. By standardizing communication channels, municipalities can:

• Prevent Cyber Threats: Secure domains reduce the risk of phishing attacks and unauthorized access.

• Improve Trust: Voters and stakeholders can confidently trust official communications from a verified .gov or wi.gov email address.

• Ensure Compliance: Align with federal guidelines for election security and technology improvements.

This initiative underscores Wisconsin’s commitment to safeguarding election processes and maintaining public confidence in democratic systems.

Questions and Support

For assistance with the subgrant application process or additional information, contact the WEC Help Desk:

• Phone: (608) 261-2028

• Email: electionsdomain@wi.gov

The WEC is committed to supporting municipalities in adopting secure and reliable email systems to enhance the integrity of election communications.

Conclusion

The 2022-2025 Election Security .gov Email Domain Subgrant is a vital resource for Wisconsin municipalities, enabling them to transition to secure email domains and strengthen election security. By taking advantage of this funding, jurisdictions can protect sensitive information, build voter trust, and align with national standards for election security.

Municipalities are encouraged to apply promptly to ensure access to available funds before the program’s total budget is expended. Visit the WEC website for more information and take the next step in securing Wisconsin’s election infrastructure.