Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that modifies the required identification process for absentee voting to better reflect in-person Election Day identification requirements.

Highlights:

• Authorizes identification for absentee ballots to be more similar to individuals registering in person on Election Day, and maintains the written application option for individuals that need or prefer it (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that an absentee voter no longer has to complete a “Statement of Voter” on an absentee ballot’s identification envelope (Sec.1).

• Authorizes any individual that is unable to provide proper ID or proof of voter eligibility to cast a provisional ballot that will not be counted until proof is verified (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that official ID may include an individual’s driver’s license or valid photo ID, the last four digits of their social security number, or a copy of their current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other official government document (Sec. 1).

• Requires an individual to live in Ohio for at least 30 days before the election to be eligible to vote in such election (Sec. 1).

• Authorizes precinct election officials to challenge an individual voter’s right to vote (Sec. 1).

• Authorizes the Board of Elections to process and examine an absentee ballot before Election Day, but prohibits the Board from counting ballots before the official time that votes are counted (Sec. 1).

• Prohibits an absentee voter from receiving a replacement ballot after that individual’s first ballot has been scanned and recorded (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that election officials will notify an individual if any part of their ballot is deemed incomplete or flawed, and authorizes that individual to make the necessary changes within 7 days after the election date for the ballot to officially be counted (Sec. 1).

• Authorizes an 11-day post-election window for absentee ballots from the armed or uniformed services to be counted (Sec. 1).

Full Bill Text