The bill amends and reenacts several sections of Louisiana's election laws, specifically focusing on absentee by mail ballots and the processes for challenging these ballots. Key changes include the addition of provisions that allow for the challenge of ballots with missing information on the absentee by mail certificate, which must be completed by the voter. The bill clarifies that a ballot will not be deemed challenged solely due to the voter not knowing their mother's maiden name. Additionally, it establishes that any absentee ballot with missing required information that was not cured by the voter will be considered challenged.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the procedures for handling challenges during the counting of absentee ballots, including the requirement for a majority of board members to determine the validity of challenged ballots. It mandates that voters be notified in writing of any challenges and the reasons for them within four business days. The Secretary of State is tasked with providing preprinted information on absentee ballot certificates and creating a uniform challenge process for missing items on these certificates. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the integrity and clarity of the absentee voting process in Louisiana.

Statutes affected:
SB226 Original: 18:1(G)(3), 18:1315(C)
SB226 Engrossed: 18:1(G)(3), 18:1315(C)
SB226 Enrolled: 18:1(G)(3), 18:1315(C)
SB226 Act 321: 18:1(G)(3), 18:1315(C)