MI HB4491

Requires absent voter ballot secrecy envelope containers to be made of metal, plastic, fiberglass, or similar tamper-resistant material and be capable of being sealed, with county canvassers examining and approving containers by June 1, 2026 and every 4 years thereafter.

Authorizes cities and townships with populations of at least 10,000 to conduct absent voter ballot pre-processing on the Sunday and Monday before election day, including opening envelopes and removing ballot secrecy envelopes, with election inspectors from both major political parties present and challengers allowed.

Establishes requirements for absent voter ballot drop boxes including secure locking, prevention of ballot removal when locked, bolting to ground if outdoors, video monitoring for boxes installed after October 1, 2020, and documentation of collection times and amounts.

Modifies voter registration cancellation procedures to require county clerks to update the qualified voter file monthly (or more frequently near elections) to initiate cancellations of deceased electors over 17½ years old, with Secretary of State notifying city and township clerks within 24 hours.

Allows electors to spoil and replace absent voter ballots through written request until 5 p.m. on the Friday before election day, or in person until 4 p.m. the day before election (except Sunday or legal holiday).