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 the day of the election, as opposed to the previous local time of 8:00 p.m. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for the secure storage of ballots that are not delivered on election day due to weather or mechanical issues, requiring them to be kept in a transparent, secured container under video surveillance until they can be delivered to the director.

Other notable amendments include the requirement that early voting ballots be tabulated by 11:59 p.m. Alaska time on election day, and that absentee ballots must be marked and mailed by election day to be counted. The bill also clarifies the timeline for sending absentee ballots to voters, ensuring they are sent at least 60 days before an election if requested in time. Overall, these changes 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