CA AB1660

Elections officials must examine vote by mail ballot envelopes for signs of damage (including rips, tears, or attempts to unseal) while verifying the voter's signature.

Elections officials shall send first class mail notice to voters with damaged ballots on or before the next business day, but no later than 8 days before election certification, explaining the ballot will not be processed.

Voters with damaged ballot envelopes may elect to receive and submit a new vote by mail ballot or vote in person at their home precinct polling place, a vote center, or an elections official's office.

Elections officials are prohibited from processing ballots that arrive in envelopes showing signs of damage.

The state shall reimburse local agencies and school districts for any costs mandated by this bill, as determined by the Commission on State Mandates.