This bill introduces a new section to the existing law regarding absentee ballots, specifically creating an "Absentee Ballot Certificate" that mandates town or ward clerks to perform and record specific counts of absentee ballots. The Secretary of State is required to prepare and distribute two copies of this certificate to each clerk. Upon counting the absentee ballots, clerks must certify the total number of absentee ballots received and document various counts, including those mailed, spoiled, or remaining before polls open. One copy of the certificate is to be retained by the clerk, while the other must be sent to the Secretary of State within 72 hours after elections.

Additionally, the bill amends the existing "Pre-Election Certificate" to include the counting of both official and absentee ballots. The Secretary of State will distribute three copies of this certificate, which must be certified by the moderator and clerk after the ballots are counted. One copy will be kept by the moderator, one by the clerk, and the third will be forwarded to the Secretary of State along with the election returns. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
As Amended by the Senate: 658:32