The bill amends Section 17-20-9 of the General Laws regarding mail ballots, specifically focusing on the application process for permanently disabled or incapacitated voters and nursing home residents. It introduces a new application process that allows eligible voters to automatically receive mail ballot applications for every election. The previous requirement for voters to sign an affidavit has been replaced with a simpler application process. Additionally, the bill clarifies that if a voter is no longer an eligible voter, the local board of canvassers must be notified, and the voter's name will be removed from the mailing list.

The bill also specifies that the application and instructions must be forwardable. It defines nursing home residents and clarifies that long-term residents exclude those temporarily residing in such facilities for rehabilitation. The act aims to modernize and streamline the existing processes for mail ballot applications, enhancing accessibility for voters with disabilities. The changes will take effect upon passage of the bill.

Statutes affected:
5709: 17-20-9