This bill amends Section 14-115.6 of the Oklahoma Statutes regarding absentee ballots for registered voters who are deployed as first responders, emergency workers, or uniformed service members during a declared natural disaster or state of emergency. The amendment allows these individuals to request an emergency absentee ballot even after the standard deadline for absentee ballot requests has passed. The request must be made in writing and submitted to the county election board, and the voter must provide proof of identity when receiving the ballot.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that the absentee ballots must be returned by the voter in person, by mail, or through other approved delivery methods by 7:00 p.m. on election day. The county election board is responsible for processing these ballots in the same manner as other absentee ballots. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes a declaration of emergency to ensure its immediate implementation upon passage and approval.