The bill amends Iowa's election code to revise absentee voting procedures significantly. One of the primary changes is the new deadline for returning absentee ballots, which must now be delivered to the county commissioner of elections by 5:00 p.m. on the day before election day, rather than by the close of polls on election day. Additionally, the bill introduces specific definitions for various envelopes used in the absentee voting process, including "affidavit envelope," "delivery envelope," "return envelope," and "secrecy envelope." Voters are required to sign the affidavit envelope and include their voter verification number, with provisions stating that if the verification number does not match the one on file, the envelope will be deemed defective.

Moreover, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the commissioner regarding the verification of absentee ballots and the notification process for voters if their ballots are found to be defective. It emphasizes the importance of the voter verification number and signature on the affidavit envelope, and establishes procedures for voters to request replacement ballots if needed. The bill aims to streamline the absentee voting process while ensuring the integrity and security of the ballots cast, including provisions for the review of affidavit envelopes by election officials and the preservation of ballot secrecy.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 9E.6, 53.18, 53.12, 53.16, 53.17, 53.8, 53.22, 53.33, 53.17A, 53.23, 43.2, 53.25, 53.30, 53.44