AR SB247

Absentee ballots must be tabulated or counted no earlier than 8:30 a.m. on election day, with all absentee and early votes counted and completed before counting election day votes

Two election officials must open and canvass absentee ballot materials, comparing voter name, residential address, date of birth, and signature across the application, voter statement, and identification documents

Absentee ballots designated as provisional due to missing materials, non-matching information, or signature discrepancies may be cured by the voter in person or in writing by 12:00 noon the Monday following the election

County boards of election commissioners must notify voters of provisional ballot status and cure procedures within 48 hours via email, telephone, text, or mail

State Board of Election Commissioners must adopt rules by January 1, 2026 establishing procedures for absentee ballot storage, chain of custody documentation, and handling standards to prevent tampering