The bill amends Section 17-20-9 of the General Laws in Chapter 17-20, titled "Mail Ballots," to enhance the process for permanently disabled or incapacitated voters and nursing home residents to apply for mail ballots. Key changes include the replacement of the term "affidavit" with "application," allowing eligible voters to request automatic mail ballot applications for every election. The bill also clarifies that if a voter is no longer eligible, they must notify the local board of canvassers, which will then remove their name from the mailing list and inform the voter within five days. Additionally, the bill establishes that the application and instructions will be mailed to applicants with a stamped return envelope.

Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for eligible disabled voters to electronically receive and return their mail ballots, aligning with the electronic transmission system used for voters covered by the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA). This electronic process is designed to comply with federal accessibility standards under the Rehabilitation Act. The definition of "eligible disabled voter" is also clarified, specifying that it includes individuals whose disabilities make it unduly difficult to vote in person. The act is set to take effect upon passage.