The bill amends several sections of Louisiana's election laws to enhance the integrity and security of the voting process. Key provisions include the requirement for individuals assisting voters to complete a voter assistance form that includes their name, address, relationship to the voter, and whether they were compensated for their assistance. Additionally, the bill prohibits the distribution of unsolicited absentee by mail ballot applications and restricts the submission of such applications to immediate family members of the voter. It also establishes that absentee ballot applications can remain valid for a specified period, with conditions for renewal and invalidation based on undeliverable ballots.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new provisions regarding the distribution of absentee ballot applications during emergencies, requiring the Secretary of State to assess the need for such distributions in the event of a gubernatorially declared disaster. It also outlines penalties for facilitating the distribution of absentee ballots in violation of the law. The effective date for the majority of the provisions is set for January 1, 2025, while other sections will take effect upon the governor's signature or legislative approval following a veto.

Statutes affected:
SB218 Original: 18:564(B)(5), 18:1307(B)(1), 18:3(B)(4), 18:7(A)(6)
SB218 Engrossed: 18:564(B)(5), 18:1307(B)(1), 18:3(B)(4), 18:7(A)(6)
SB218 Reengrossed: 18:564(B)(5), 18:1307(B)(1), 18:3(B)(4), 18:7(A)(6)
SB218 Enrolled: 18:564(B)(5), 18:1307(B)(1), 18:3(B)(4), 18:7(A)(6)
SB218 Act 317: 18:564(B)(5), 18:1307(B)(1), 18:3(B)(4), 18:7(A)(6)