SB2836 Summary

• Allows signatures on election forms (registration applications, ballots, affidavits) to be made in ink or digitized form, establishing digital signatures as legally equivalent to handwritten signatures.

• Establishes online voter registration system where applicants with valid Illinois driver's licenses or state ID cards can submit applications electronically through the State Board of Elections website, with applications deemed timely if submitted by 11:59 p.m. on the 16th day prior to an election.

• Permits voter registration master files to be maintained in computer-based format or paper format, with digital files required to be searchable and kept current with all registration activity, including off-site backup copies.

• Allows vote-by-mail ballots to be processed by election authorities beginning when received (instead of 15 days before election), though results cannot be counted until election day after 7:00 p.m.

• Takes effect immediately upon becoming law.