This bill amends the absentee ballot provisions in the Code of West Virginia, specifically section 3-3-5, to enhance the accessibility and security of absentee voting. 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, the bill allows qualified first responders to vote by electronic absentee ballot under certain emergency circumstances and outlines the process for submitting and accepting their absentee voting applications. It also prohibits election officials from providing unsolicited absentee ballot applications to voters and restricts individuals from delivering more than ten unsolicited applications, establishing a misdemeanor penalty for violations of these provisions.

Key changes include the definition of "qualified first responder" and the specific timeline for absentee ballot applications, which now allows first responders to apply starting 13 days before an election. The bill also introduces penalties for election officials and individuals who violate the rules regarding unsolicited absentee ballot applications, with fines and potential imprisonment for offenders. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline the absentee voting process while ensuring that it remains secure and accessible to those who need it.

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