This bill amends the absentee voting provisions in West Virginia's Code by requiring that applications for absentee ballots be made available both at the county clerk's office and online through the Secretary of State's official website. It introduces the option for qualified first responders to vote by electronic absentee ballot under specific emergency circumstances, defines "qualified first responder," and outlines the process for submitting and accepting absentee voting applications for these individuals. Additionally, the bill prohibits election officials from providing unsolicited absentee ballot applications to voters and restricts any person from delivering more than ten unsolicited applications, establishing a misdemeanor penalty for violations of these provisions.

Key changes include the stipulation that absentee ballot applications can only be mailed or delivered upon specific request from the voter, their immediate family, or a caregiver. The bill also sets different deadlines for absentee ballot applications, allowing qualified first responders to apply starting 13 days before the election, while other voters must apply by the sixth day before the election. Furthermore, it establishes penalties for election officials and individuals who violate the rules regarding unsolicited absentee ballot applications, reinforcing the integrity of the absentee voting process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-3-5