The bill amends Section 17-20-2.1 of the General Laws in Chapter 17-20, which pertains to the requirements for the validity of mail ballots and mail ballot applications in the state. The bill introduces a new subsection (f), which restricts who can mail another person's mail ballot. Under this new provision, only the voter themselves, their spouse, court-appointed guardian, cohabitant, or an adult relative by blood or marriage are permitted to mail the voter's mail ballot. Violation of this new rule would constitute a misdemeanor, subject to penalties outlined in § 17-26-2.

The bill also renumbers the existing subsection (f) to subsection (g), maintaining the provision that a mail ballot application should not be disqualified if the voter's circumstances change after the application is made, as long as the voter remains qualified to receive a mail ballot. The local board of canvassers is required to notify the state board of elections of any such changes. The bill would take effect immediately upon passage, and the legislative council explains that the act aims to regulate who can physically mail a voted mail ballot, with penalties for violations including imprisonment for up to one year or a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars ($1,000), or both.

Statutes affected:
395: 17-20-2.1