This bill seeks to amend Section 17-20-10 of the General Laws in Chapter 17-20 entitled "Mail Ballots". The amendment would allow voters to choose to vote by mail for a period of up to two years for both the primary and general elections in the year they submit their absentee voting application and in the year thereafter. The secretary of state would be responsible for prescribing any necessary forms and instructions to implement this provision.

The bill also outlines the process for the local board to examine and determine the validity of the application, record the necessary information, and certify the applications to the secretary of state. The secretary of state would then issue and mail the mail ballots to eligible voters, including a stamped, return envelope addressed to the board of elections. The bill also includes provisions for the secretary of state to consult with the local board if a ballot is returned as undeliverable and for the board of canvassers to attempt to notify the voter in such cases. The acceptance of a mail ballot application and the issuance of a mail ballot would not create any presumption as to the accuracy of the information provided by the applicant or their compliance with the provisions of the chapter.

Statutes affected:
5958: 17-20-10