The bill amends the Election Code to allow voters who are voting early by mail due to absence from their county of residence to receive their ballots electronically. Specifically, it introduces provisions for voters to provide an email address on their ballot application, enabling them to receive their voting materials via electronic transmission. The bill also outlines the types of materials that can be sent electronically, including the ballot, instructions for voting, and information on how to return the ballot by mail to ensure it is counted.

Additionally, the bill establishes that the email addresses used for this purpose will be kept confidential and not disclosed as public information. It mandates that the Secretary of State develop procedures for implementing these changes. The bill also clarifies that marked ballots received through electronic transmission must be returned to the early voting clerk by mail or through a common or contract carrier, ensuring the integrity of the voting process. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Election Code 84.002, Election Code 84.011, Election Code 86.003, Election Code 86.006 (Election Code 86, Election Code 84)