HI HB2236

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 15-3.5 to add emergency authority provisions for federal write-in absentee ballots for overseas and uniformed services voters.

Authorizes the governor or chief election officer to prescribe special procedures or requirements for absentee voting when an international, national, state, or county emergency makes compliance with the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act impossible or impracticable.

Defines qualifying emergencies as including armed conflict involving U.S. armed forces, mobilization of national guard or reserve components, natural disasters, state of emergency declarations, civil unrest, war, or other exigencies in foreign countries.

Requires the chief election officer to take reasonable steps to provide absent uniformed services voters and overseas voters with timely notice of any special procedures or requirements prescribed under this authority.

Takes effect upon approval.