Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas has announced actions the state will take to ensure the security of Bridgeport's upcoming mayoral election next month.

Thomas says Bridgeport's town clerk will receive thorough training on absentee ballot laws and procedures, and head moderators will undergo refresher training.

Thomas released a video on Wednesday detailing the new absentee ballot guidelines.

She says most of what he called for is already in the law, but one of the main new measures is that previously obtained absentee ballot applications cannot be used. Beginning this Friday, people can apply for new ballots with unique serial numbers.

"I would like the people of Bridgeport to have full confidence that their vote is in fact their voice and that their voice will be heard,” Thomas said. “Each eligible voter is entitled to one vote, and the very idea and the fact that somebody would try to usurp that, we find very troubling in the secretary's office."

She stated that an election monitor will accompany the town clerk on all pickups from drop boxes during the election period.

"We need your help. One or two election monitors cannot be everywhere at all times; we hope this new video educates people about what is and isn't legal, and if they see something, say something," said Thomas.

Authorities say they will review absentee ballot applications for atypical patterns and reporting when warranted.

Officials said they will make sure all drop boxes are uniformly locked at 8 p.m. on Election Day.

Thomas encouraged the public to use the Election Day Hotline monitored by the State Elections Enforcement Commission.

The election hotline number will be available only on Election Day at 866-733-2463.