Senate Bill 511 amends Wisconsin statute 6.87 (9) regarding the handling of absentee ballots that have improperly completed certificates or lack certificates altogether. Currently, municipal clerks have the discretion to return such ballots to voters if time allows for the voter to correct the issue and return the ballot by 8 p.m. on election day. The proposed change mandates that clerks must return these ballots to voters under the same circumstances, ensuring that voters have the opportunity to rectify any defects in their absentee ballots.

The specific legal language change in the bill replaces the word "may" with "shall," indicating a requirement rather than an option for clerks. This shift emphasizes the obligation of municipal clerks to assist voters in correcting their absentee ballot issues, thereby enhancing voter participation and ensuring that ballots are properly submitted.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 6.87(9), 6.87