Bill > SB52

This bill makes several changes to Alaska's election laws regarding ballot counting, early voting, and absentee voting. The key provisions include extending the time for ballot tabulation and counting from 8:00 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. on election day, modifying early voting periods to end on the Saturday before the election, and adjusting rules for absentee ballot submission and counting. The bill allows for special circumstances such as delayed ballot delivery due to weather or mechanical issues, requiring such ballots to be securely stored and delivered as soon as possible. It also updates provisions for overseas and military voters, specifying timelines for ballot distribution and receipt. The legislation aims to provide more flexibility in ballot handling while maintaining election integrity, including provisions for ballot review, identification requirements, and procedures for recounts. Notably, the bill standardizes the cutoff time for ballot counting and reporting to 11:59 p.m. Alaska time on election day, which could potentially allow more time for vote processing and reporting in remote or challenging geographical areas of the state.

Government Affairs

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=SB52