This bill amends the current law regarding the processing of absentee ballots by removing the provision that allows 10 or more voters present at the polls to postpone the processing of absentee ballots. Specifically, the language that stated, "upon the written challenges of 10 or more voters who are present at the polls no later than 1:00 p.m., the moderator shall postpone the processing of all absentee ballots until after the polls close" is deleted.

In place of this provision, the bill introduces new requirements for the moderator or their designee to publicly announce and post the time at which absentee ballot processing will begin, ensuring that this information is made available at least 24 hours before the polls open. This change aims to streamline the absentee ballot processing procedure and eliminate potential delays caused by voter challenges at the polls. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 659:49