SB 214 introduces significant amendments to the absentee voting process in New Hampshire, aiming to enhance accessibility and streamline registration and voting procedures. The bill modifies RSA 654:16 and 654:17 to allow any qualified voter whose name is not on the checklist to register absentee by applying to the city or town clerk or the secretary of state. It updates the language to be gender-neutral by replacing "his" with "or her" and maintains the requirement for proof of identity and domicile. Additionally, the bill removes references to absentee voting based on religious observance and physical disability from RSA 656:33 and RSA 657:1, allowing for a broader application of absentee ballots without the need for specific justifications. Further amendments include clarifying the definition of "employment" in RSA 657:4, I, to encompass the care of children and infirm adults, and updating the absentee ballot application form to include a section for party affiliation for primary elections. The bill ensures that if a person assists a voter with a disability in completing the application, their signature will not be compared to the voter's signature on the absentee ballot affidavit. It also allows elderly or infirm voters with safety concerns due to severe weather warnings to vote absentee on the Monday prior to the election. Overall, SB 214 seeks to simplify the absentee voting process and protect voters' rights while increasing participation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 654:16, 656:33, 657:4, 669:26