This bill modifies the eligibility criteria for absentee voting in New Hampshire by requiring voters to either be absent from their registered town or city on election day or be physically disabled and unable to vote in person. The existing law, RSA 657:1, is repealed and reenacted to reflect this change, which eliminates "religious observance" as a valid reason for absentee voting. The bill aims to streamline the criteria for requesting an absentee ballot, focusing solely on absence or disability. It also outlines the responsibilities of the clerk's office regarding absentee ballot applications and mandates that the office be open for these applications and returns on the day before the election.

Additionally, the bill introduces amendments to the absentee voting process, including changes to the certification statement that voters must complete when submitting an absentee ballot. It removes options related to work or caregiving responsibilities and adds a provision for voters confined to a penal institution for a misdemeanor or awaiting trial. The bill specifies requirements for absentee ballot return envelopes and mandates that explanatory materials and instructions for voters be provided by the secretary of state with the attorney general's approval. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 656:33, 657:4, 657:7