MI SB0721

Expands absent voter provisions to include "absent uniformed services voters" and "overseas voters," replacing narrower references to "armed services members."

Allows absent uniformed services voters and overseas voters to register using federal postcard applications and to apply for absent voter ballots without being pre-registered.

Requires county, city, township, and village clerks to electronically transmit blank voter registration or absent voter ballot applications upon request, and to accept completed applications submitted electronically with voter signatures.

Establishes procedures for electronic transmission of absent voter ballots to uniformed services and overseas voters, with the Secretary of State prescribing electronic ballot formats and transmission methods.

Requires clerks to mail or electronically transmit absent voter ballots at least 45 days before elections to eligible uniformed services and overseas voters, and specifies that ballots received before 2 p.m. on the Saturday before an election are eligible for that election.

Protects electronic mail addresses provided by absent uniformed services and overseas voters as confidential under the Freedom of Information Act.

Takes effect June 1, 2010, and applies to the August 3, 2010 election and all subsequent elections in Michigan.