SB 901 Summary

• Extends COVID-19 as an eligible reason for absentee voting through June 30, 2021 for all elections, primaries, and referendums held during this period.

• Accelerates absentee ballot processing and mailing timelines, allowing ballots to be mailed within 48 hours of application (instead of 24 hours) and permits third-party vendors to mail within 72 hours.

• Establishes secure drop boxes for absentee ballot return beginning 29 days before elections, with police escort requirements for retrievals when drop boxes are located outside clerk offices.

• Allows absentee ballots to be processed and counted before election day starting 4 days prior, with designated central counting locations subject to Secretary of State approval.

• Reduces election notice requirements from 5-15 days to 4-7 days for state elections, municipal elections, and primaries held between the bill's effective date and July 1, 2021.