The bill amends Section 17-20-23 of the General Laws regarding the marking and certification of mail ballots. It introduces new provisions that specify how voters can return their mail ballots, allowing them to deposit their ballots into official drop boxes or deliver them to the state board of elections by 8:00 PM on election day. Additionally, it clarifies that a voter may return their ballot via the United States Postal Service, deposit it into an official elections drop box, or deliver it in person, with the return being made by the voter or an authorized person who is not affiliated with a candidate or political campaign.

The bill allows immediate family members or members of a voter's household to return ballots, even if they are candidates or affiliated with a political campaign. It establishes restrictions on who can possess a voter's mail ballot, stating that no person affiliated with a candidate or political campaign may possess another voter's mail ballot, except for immediate family members, caregivers, or those living in the same household as the voter, as well as certain authorized personnel.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits individuals affiliated with a candidate or political campaign from being present when a voter executes their mail ballot, unless they are immediate family members or authorized by law. It defines "immediate family member" and ensures that voters requiring assistance due to blindness, disability, or inability to read or write can receive help from a person of their choice, excluding their employer or union representatives.

The bill includes penalties for those who knowingly and willfully violate its provisions, classifying such violations as misdemeanors. It emphasizes that any reference to "mail ballot" or "ballot by mail" also applies to emergency mail ballots. The act is set to take effect upon passage, aiming to enhance the integrity and security of the mail ballot voting process.

Statutes affected:
3114: 17-20-23