The bill amends the absentee voting provisions in the Code of West Virginia, specifically section 3-3-5, to align absentee voting periods with early in-person voting. It establishes that absentee ballot applications must be submitted no later than the thirteenth day before the election for most voters, while qualified first responders have a deadline of 5:00 p.m. the day before the election. Additionally, the bill mandates that absentee ballots must be received by the official designated to supervise absentee voting by 8:00 p.m. on election day to be counted, replacing the previous requirement that allowed ballots to be counted if received by the hour the board of canvassers convenes.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the procedures for voters to apply for and submit absentee ballots, including the requirements for assistance in completing applications and the handling of ballots returned by mail or electronically. It emphasizes the importance of ensuring that ballots are processed securely and in accordance with party affiliation oversight. The changes aim to streamline the absentee voting process while ensuring that all ballots are counted fairly and accurately.

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