This bill amends the existing absentee voting law to expand the circumstances under which voters may request absentee ballots due to severe weather conditions. Specifically, it modifies the introductory paragraph of RSA 657:1, II by replacing the specific weather warnings of "winter storm warning, blizzard warning, or ice storm warning" with the broader term "any severe weather watch or warning." This change allows for absentee voting to be permitted not only during specific winter weather events but also during any severe weather conditions as determined by the National Weather Service on election day.

The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, ensuring that voters are able to exercise their right to vote absentee in the event of severe weather, thereby promoting voter participation and accessibility during adverse conditions.