The bill amends sections 3509.03, 3511.02, and 3599.21 of the Revised Code to prohibit any person from mailing unsolicited absentee ballot request forms to others. Specifically, it introduces new language stating that "No person shall mail an unsolicited application for absent voter's ballots to any person." Additionally, it removes the previous allowance under section 111.31 of the Revised Code, which permitted certain actions related to absentee ballot applications. The bill also clarifies that public offices and officials cannot prepay return postage for absentee ballot applications or deliver unsolicited applications.

Furthermore, the bill establishes penalties for violations of these provisions. A person who knowingly violates the prohibition against mailing unsolicited absentee ballot applications will face a misdemeanor charge for the first offense and a felony charge for subsequent offenses. The bill aims to enhance the integrity of the absentee voting process by ensuring that voters only receive ballot requests they have initiated themselves.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3509.03, 3511.02, 3599.21, 111.31