The bill authorizes the Secretary of State to develop and test electronic methods for ballot return specifically for covered voters, which include service and overseas voters, disabled voters, and certain incarcerated voters. It establishes a new section that mandates the creation of an electronic ballot portal to facilitate the return of voted ballots for those who cannot use standard mail. The Secretary of State is tasked with ensuring that the electronic methods are secure, maintain voter privacy, and confirm that only one vote is cast per covered voter.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the Secretary of State and county election offices regarding the use of the electronic portal. This includes the establishment of rules for portal usage, record-keeping of ballot return attempts, and the preparation of reports on the portal's usage. The Secretary of State is required to submit annual progress reports to the legislature starting December 1, 2025, with a final report due by December 1, 2028. Importantly, no electronic ballot portal can be approved or deployed without specific statutory authority.