The bill amends Section 14-115.6 of Title 26 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which pertains to emergency absentee ballots for first responders and emergency workers. The amendment allows registered voters who are deployed as either first responders or emergency workers during a declared natural disaster or state of emergency, as well as uniformed service members, to request an emergency absentee ballot after the standard deadline for absentee ballot requests. The request must be made in writing and submitted to the county election board, and the voter must provide proof of identity.
Additionally, the bill outlines the process for issuing and returning emergency absentee ballots, ensuring that they are processed similarly to other absentee ballots. The Secretary of the State Election Board is tasked with promulgating rules to implement these procedures. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage and approval.