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 winter-related weather events but also during any severe weather conditions as determined by the National Weather Service.

The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, ensuring that voters can utilize absentee voting in response to a wider range of severe weather situations that may impact their ability to vote in person on election day. This legislative change aims to enhance voter accessibility and participation during adverse weather conditions.