This bill amends the absentee voting provisions in West Virginia's Code, specifically section 3-3-5, to enhance accessibility and security for absentee ballots. It mandates that applications for absentee ballots be available both at the county clerk's office and online through the Secretary of State's official website. Additionally, it allows qualified first responders to vote by electronic absentee ballot under certain emergency circumstances, defines who qualifies as a first responder, and outlines the process for submitting and accepting their absentee voting applications. The bill also prohibits election officials from providing unsolicited absentee ballot applications to voters and establishes penalties for violations of this provision.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the deadlines for submitting absentee ballot applications, allowing qualified first responders to apply as late as the day before the election. It changes the deadline for mail-in ballots to be received by 7:30 p.m. on election day, replacing the previous requirement of being received the day after the election. The legislation also introduces misdemeanor penalties for election officials who violate the rules regarding unsolicited applications and for individuals who distribute more than ten unsolicited applications to voters. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the absentee voting process while ensuring the integrity and security of the election system.

Statutes affected:
Committee Substitute: 3-3-5
Introduced Version: 3-3-5
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 3-3-5