This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to mandate that absentee ballots must be received by the time the polls close on election day. Specifically, it modifies the existing provisions regarding the acceptance of absentee ballots, ensuring that ballots returned by mail, electronically, or hand-delivered must arrive by the close of polls on election day. The bill also clarifies that absentee ballots from uniformed services and overseas voters will follow the same deadline, reinforcing the importance of timely ballot submission.

Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for handling absentee ballots, including the requirements for applications, the process for verifying voter eligibility, and the conditions under which ballots can be accepted or challenged. It emphasizes the need for secure handling of ballots, including the presence of representatives from different political parties during the processing of ballots. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline the absentee voting process while ensuring that all ballots are counted fairly and in a timely manner.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-3-5