MO HB1604

Removes the requirement for registered voters to provide a specific reason when applying for or voting by absentee ballot, allowing any eligible registered voter to vote absentee for any election.

Eliminates language requiring voters to state reasons such as absence from jurisdiction, illness, religious belief, employment, or incarceration from absentee ballot applications and ballot envelopes.

Maintains existing deadlines for absentee ballot applications: by 5:00 p.m. Wednesday before election for mail/facsimile submissions, and by 5:00 p.m. day before election for in-person applications.

Removes the notary seal requirement for voters voting absentee due to incapacity or confinement from illness or physical disability, though notaries cannot charge fees for notarizing absentee ballots.

Preserves special provisions for absent uniformed services voters, overseas voters, new residents, and other categories while eliminating reason-based restrictions on their absentee voting eligibility.