ID H0571

Amends Section 34-1003 to clarify that the county clerk is responsible for arranging absentee voting and establishes procedures for transmission of ballots to uniformed and overseas voters under federal law.

Amends Section 34-1004 to remove obsolete language regarding perforated ballots and clarifies affidavit requirements for absentee ballot return envelopes.

Amends Section 34-1007 and 34-1008 to allow counties counting ballots at a central location to open absentee ballot envelopes prior to election day beginning at 8:00 a.m. on the Monday before the election, with signature verification and security procedures required.

Adds Section 34-1012 to establish optional "early voting" procedures for counties with statewide voter registration system access, allowing voting from the third Monday before election through 5:00 p.m. on Friday before election day.

Adds Section 34-1013 to require detailed ballot security plans for early voting, including locked and sealed ballot boxes, recorded access logs, security personnel, two-person access requirements, and prohibition on counting or releasing results until all state polling places close.