HB 6078 Summary

• Removes requirement that absent voters state statutory grounds (disability, religion, age, absence, etc.) when applying for absent voter ballots.

• Allows any registered elector to request an absent voter ballot by mail, facsimile, or electronic mail without justification, expanding from previous eligibility restrictions.

• Adds facsimile and electronic mail as approved methods for submitting absent voter ballot applications to local election clerks.

• Clarifies that persons who distribute and collect absent voter ballot applications without authorization are guilty of a misdemeanor.

• Maintains emergency absent voter ballot provisions allowing applications up to 4 p.m. on election day when unforeseen circumstances prevented timely application.