The bill introduced by Senators Gavarone and Brenner seeks to amend various sections of the Revised Code to enhance the integrity and security of the voting process in Ohio. A significant change is the requirement for verification of an elector's citizenship before they are allowed to vote, which includes the introduction of new definitions such as "proof of citizenship" and acceptable forms of documentation. The bill also modifies procedures related to voter registration, absentee voting, and election petitions, including the requirement for circulators of petitions to indicate if they are compensated for their work, replacing the previous term employed. Additionally, it establishes new protocols for handling provisional ballots and absentee voting, ensuring that voters provide necessary identification and that their ballots are counted accurately. Moreover, the bill emphasizes transparency and accountability in the petition process by requiring detailed financial reporting from petition committees and clarifying the roles of election officials. It introduces new provisions for the handling of absentee ballots, including tracking mechanisms and the ability for voters to return ballots in person. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of boards of elections in maintaining accurate voter registration records and establishes penalties for violations of election laws. Overall, these amendments aim to streamline the electoral process while ensuring compliance with legal standards and enhancing voter accessibility and security.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 303.12, 303.59, 307.94, 3501.01, 3501.38, 3501.381, 3501.39, 3503.13, 3503.14, 3503.15, 3503.151, 3503.152, 3503.153, 3503.16, 3503.19, 3503.20, 3503.21, 3503.33, 3505.181, 3505.182, 3505.183, 3505.20, 3509.02, 3509.03, 3509.04, 3509.05, 3509.051, 3509.06, 3509.07, 3509.08, 3509.09, 3511.02, 3511.04, 3511.05, 3511.09, 3511.11, 3511.14, 3513.07, 3513.261, 3517.01, 3517.12, 3519.02, 3519.05, 3519.16, 3599.12, 3599.21