CT HB05419

Changes default absentee ballot counting from optional central location to mandatory central location "within existing resources," with location designated by registrars at least 20 days before election and published in election warning.

Allows absentee ballots to be counted in respective polling places only if registrars (or both parties in primaries with unaffiliated voters) agree in writing that polling place counting should occur.

Requires registrars to appoint one or more electors of integrity to count absentee ballots and jointly appoint a central counting moderator and alternate moderator, unless ballots are to be counted in polling places.

Permits public observation of absentee ballot counting at central locations and grants appropriate election officials observation rights at polling place counting.

Establishes procedures for ballot delivery, checklist verification, challenge processes, and record preservation that accommodate both central counting and polling place counting scenarios.