Raised Bill No. 5001 proposes extensive reforms to absentee voting and election administration in Connecticut, set to take effect on July 1, 2026. The bill broadens absentee voting eligibility by allowing any elector who will not be present at their polling place on election day to vote absentee, eliminating the need for specific reasons for absenteeism. It also updates the language regarding absentee ballot returns, requiring voters to affirm they "will not" appear at their polling place. Additional provisions include the requirement for individuals distributing absentee ballot applications to register with municipal clerks, while exempting certain groups, and mandates the Secretary of the State to provide clear guidelines on absentee voting eligibility on their website. The bill also introduces a log for incarcerated absentee ballot applicants and requires the State Elections Enforcement Commission to prepare a summary of absentee voting laws for dissemination.

Moreover, the bill includes significant amendments to election procedures, such as the introduction of risk-limiting audits for state elections, the establishment of new guidelines for election officials, and the requirement for independent security reviews of voting systems. It allows for electronic issuance of absentee ballots for certain voters and mandates that municipal clerks issue absentee ballots immediately upon request. The bill also modifies the recanvassing process, requiring written notice to party chairpersons and public observation during audits. Key deletions from current law include the removal of specific eligibility criteria for absentee voting and the repeal of certain sections governing municipal election timing and procedures. Overall, Raised Bill No. 5001 aims to enhance voter accessibility, streamline election processes, and improve the integrity and security of the electoral system in Connecticut.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 9-135, 9-137, 9-369a, 9-258, 9-190b, 9-311b, 9-23l, 9-23m, 9-374, 9-153e, 9-153f, 9-158e, 9-158g, 9-140b, 7-22, 9-320f, 9-323, 9-324, 9-328, 9-320g, 9-192b