This bill amends current election law to allow registered voters to receive official primary and school election sample ballots via electronic mail, provided they request this option. The district board or commissioner of registration is required to send the sample ballots and any necessary documents electronically instead of through regular mail. Voters must supply their physical address when making this request. If there is a failure to deliver the electronic mail, a paper copy of the sample ballot will be sent to the voter. Additionally, the bill ensures that the email addresses of voters who opt for electronic delivery will not be considered public records and will be kept confidential.
The bill also mandates the Secretary of State, in collaboration with election officials, to develop standard procedures for implementing these changes. These procedures will include informing voters about their option to receive ballots electronically, maintaining the confidentiality of email addresses, and allowing voters to switch back to receiving paper ballots if desired. Furthermore, voters will be notified that by choosing to receive their sample ballot electronically, they waive the right to hold election officials responsible for any issues that may prevent delivery due to technical problems beyond the sender's control.