This bill proposes several updates to the Arizona Revised Statutes regarding the conduct of elections. Notably, it changes the timeline for early ballot distribution, extending the period from twenty-seven to thirty days before the election for when ballots can be mailed out. Additionally, it modifies the deadlines for voters to request early ballots and specifies that ballots must be received by the county recorder by 7:00 p.m. on election day starting in 2026, with alternative options for returning ballots before that date. The bill also mandates that county recorders provide for on-site tabulation of early ballots at designated voting locations after 7:00 p.m. on the Friday before election day.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new language regarding the handling of ballots, emphasizing that only the elector may possess their unvoted early ballot and clarifying the process for returning voted ballots. It also includes provisions for the identification requirements for voters presenting their ballots at voting locations. The bill aims to enhance the efficiency and security of the election process while ensuring that voters have clear instructions and options for participating in elections.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-542, 16-547, 16-548, 16-579.01, 16-579.02, 16-804, 16-579, 16-452, 99-410, 16-153, 16-545, 16-544, 16-409, 16-1005