HB83 Summary

• Amends Alabama Code Sections 17-11-3 and 17-11-7 to eliminate the requirement for registered voters to provide an excuse to vote by absentee ballot.

• Removes eight specific eligibility criteria (out-of-county travel, illness, work conflicts, student status, military service, election officer duties, caregiver status, and incarceration) that previously limited absentee voting to those meeting at least one requirement.

• Requires absentee ballot applications to be submitted in writing at least five days prior to the election, with delivery by mail, hand delivery, or commercial carrier as determined by Secretary of State rule.

• Maintains existing absentee ballot affidavit requirements, including voter certification that they have not voted in person and that all information provided is truthful, with penalties of up to $1,000 fine or six months county jail for false statements.

• Takes effect on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.