The bill amends various sections of Alaska's election laws to establish clearer guidelines for the counting of ballots, absentee voting, and early voting. Key changes include stipulating that all ballots must be counted no earlier than 11:59 p.m. Alaska time on election day, as opposed to the previous local time of 8:00 p.m. Additionally, the bill introduces a provision for the secure storage of ballots that are not delivered on election day due to weather or mechanical issues, requiring them to be stored in a transparent container under video surveillance until they can be delivered to the director.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the timeline for absentee ballots, mandating that they must be marked and returned by election day to be counted, with specific provisions for ballots from overseas voters. It also clarifies that absentee ballots must be received by the election supervisor by the close of business on the day of the election to be counted, and it allows for the counting of absentee ballots to conclude by 11:59 p.m. Alaska time on election day. These amendments aim to enhance the integrity and efficiency of the voting process in Alaska.

Statutes affected:
SB0052A, AM SB 52, introduced 01/24/2025: 15.15.350, 15.15.370, 15.20.064, 15.20.081, 15.20.480, 15.05.011, 15.40.140, 15.20.201, 15.20.203, 15.20.061, 15.07.050, 15.15.225, 15.07.060, 15.07.055, 15.20.220