This bill amends the absentee ballot voting process by requiring voters to provide additional documentation to verify their citizenship, age, domicile, and identity. Specifically, it introduces new language that mandates absentee voters to submit copies of documentation as outlined in RSA 654:12 to establish their qualifications to vote. The bill also modifies the absentee registration affidavit to include a declaration of U.S. citizenship and specifies that if the required documentation is not provided, the application shall not be approved. Additionally, the bill removes the previous requirement for proof of identity and domicile, replacing it with a broader requirement for documentation.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the submission process for absentee registration affidavits, stating that applicants must forward their affidavits along with supporting documentation and their voter registration form to the town or city clerk. It also clarifies the verification process for in-person absentee voters, indicating that voters must show a photo ID or complete a challenged voter affidavit to be treated as verified. The changes aim to enhance the integrity of the voting process by ensuring that absentee voters meet specific identification criteria before their ballots are counted. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 654:17, 654:19, 657:17-a