Bill > HB168

This bill amends Mississippi state law to extend the hours for absentee voting on the two Saturdays before an election, changing the previous cutoff time from noon to 5:00 p.m. Specifically, the bill modifies three sections of the Mississippi Code related to election procedures, updating language in sections 23-15-653, 23-15-637, and 23-15-715. The changes allow registrars' offices to remain open until 5:00 p.m. on the two Saturdays preceding an election, providing voters with additional time to cast absentee ballots in person. This extension applies to various types of elections, including those held on Tuesdays, Saturdays, and other days. The bill also ensures that absentee ballots cast during these extended hours will be properly handled, sealed, and stored securely by election officials. The modifications aim to increase accessibility for voters who wish to participate in early voting, particularly those who may have difficulty voting on election day due to work, travel, or other constraints. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, giving election offices time to prepare for the new voting hours.

Government Affairs

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0168.xml