This bill makes several changes to the process of applying for and receiving mail-in ballots in Rhode Island. It allows voters to apply for a mail ballot electronically through the voter registration portal. It also requires the local board to maintain a separate list of names and addresses of all applicants and make it available for inspection upon request. The bill also specifies that any person knowingly and willfully making a false application or certification or aiding and abetting in the making of a false application or certification shall be guilty of a felony.

Additionally, the bill outlines the process for certifying mail ballot applications and issuing mail ballots. It requires the local board to examine each application and compare the signature on the application with the signature on the original registration card or central voter registration system. If the application meets the requirements and the signature appears to be the same, the local board marks the application as "accepted" and records the voting district in which the applicant should vote. The bill also requires the secretary of state to issue and mail a mail ballot to each eligible voter who has been certified, and to include a stamped, return envelope addressed to the board of elections. If a ballot is returned as undeliverable, the secretary of state is required to consult with the local board to determine the accuracy of the mailing address and remail the ballot if necessary. The bill also clarifies that the acceptance of a mail ballot application and the issuance of a mail ballot do not create any presumption as to the accuracy of the information provided by the applicant or their compliance with the law.