The bill amends Section 17-20-2.1 of the General Laws concerning mail ballots, introducing new requirements for the validity of mail ballot applications and ballots. It specifies that only the mail ballot voter, their spouse, court-appointed guardian, cohabitant, or any adult relative by blood or marriage may physically mail the voted mail ballot. Violating this provision would be classified as a misdemeanor, with penalties including imprisonment for up to one year or a fine of up to $1,000. Additionally, the bill clarifies that a mail ballot application cannot be disqualified if the voter's circumstances change, provided they remain eligible to receive a mail ballot.

The bill also includes several procedural requirements for mail ballots, such as the necessity for voters to sign certifying envelopes and the requirement for certain applications to state the location of the elector if confined to a facility. It emphasizes the importance of accurate applications and certifications, with penalties for false submissions. The act is set to take effect upon passage, reinforcing the integrity of the mail voting process while ensuring accessibility for qualified voters.