Bill > HB217

This bill modifies New Hampshire's absentee voting procedures by requiring absentee ballot voters to submit more comprehensive documentation to establish their eligibility to vote. Specifically, voters must now provide copies of documentation that proves their U.S. citizenship, age, domicile, and identity, replacing the previous system that allowed more flexible forms of identification like utility bills or government documents. The bill changes the absentee registration affidavit to explicitly require these documents, and clarifies that if a voter does not provide the required documentation, their application shall not be approved. For in-person absentee voting, the bill eliminates the option of completing a challenged voter affidavit and now requires voters to present a photo identification to be considered a verified voter. The bill also removes language that previously allowed alternative methods of voter verification. If a voter cannot provide the required photo ID, their ballot signatures will be compared on election day. The penalties for voting fraud remain unchanged, with potential criminal misdemeanor charges and civil penalties for providing false information. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, giving election officials and voters time to adapt to the new requirements.

Government Affairs

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_docket.aspx?lsr=0259&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB217