Assembly Bill 537 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 bill specifically changes the language from "may return" to "shall return," thereby imposing a requirement on clerks to take action when they receive an absentee ballot with certificate issues. This amendment aims to enhance voter participation by ensuring that voters are informed of and can correct any mistakes in their absentee ballot submissions before the election deadline.

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