The bill SB 214 introduces significant changes to the absentee voting process in New Hampshire, allowing for no-excuse absentee registration and voting. It amends existing laws, specifically RSA 654:16 and RSA 654:17, to incorporate gender-neutral language by replacing "his" with "or her". It also enables 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. The absentee registration affidavit is updated to require proof of identity and domicile, while the bill removes references to "absence, religious observance, and disability" in RSA 656:33 and RSA 657:1, thereby streamlining the absentee voting process and allowing any person unable to vote in person for any reason to utilize absentee voting. Furthermore, the bill clarifies the definition of "employment" in RSA 657:4, I, to include the care of children and infirm adults, with or without compensation. It updates the absentee ballot application form to allow voters to declare their inability to vote in person due to various reasons, including employment obligations, disability, or religious observance. 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. Additionally, it amends RSA 669:26 to simplify the absentee voting criteria for town elections and allows elderly, infirm, or physically disabled voters to vote absentee on the Monday before the election if severe weather warnings are in effect. Overall, SB 214 aims to enhance accessibility and clarity in the absentee voting process for New Hampshire residents.

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