HB251 Summary

• Removes the requirement for registered voters to provide an excuse to vote by absentee ballot by mail, hand delivery, or commercial carrier.

• Requires absentee ballot applicants to still submit written application at least 5 days prior to the election.

• Strikes the eight specific grounds for absentee voting (out of county, illness, work schedule, student status, military service, election officer duty, caregiver status, and incarcerated status) from statutory requirements.

• Maintains emergency absentee ballot provisions and procedures for voters with last-minute conflicts discovered within 5 days of an election.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.