This bill introduces a new section to the existing law regarding absentee ballots, specifically creating an "Absentee Ballot Certificate" that mandates the counting and recording of various absentee ballot metrics by election officials. The Secretary of State is tasked with preparing and distributing three copies of this certificate to each town or ward clerk. Upon counting the absentee ballots, both the moderator and the clerk are required to certify the total number of absentee ballots received and document specific counts, including the total ballots mailed, spoiled, and those remaining before and after the polls close. One copy of the certificate will be kept by the moderator, one by the clerk, and the final copy must be sent to the Secretary of State within 48 hours after the election.

The bill amends RSA 657 by inserting a new section (657:23-a) that outlines these requirements, while no specific deletions from current law are noted in the text provided. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, ensuring that the new procedures for absentee ballot counting are implemented in a timely manner.