Bill > HB3355

This bill amends the Illinois Election Code to provide election authorities with an alternative method for distributing vote by mail ballots. Under the new provisions, election authorities may choose to mail a vote by mail ballot directly to all qualified voters instead of sending notices and applications for permanent vote by mail status. If an election authority chooses this option, they must first create a public list of all voters who will receive ballots, post this list at their office, and electronically submit the list to the State Board of Elections. The bill includes important safeguards: first-time voters must provide and have their identity verified before receiving a ballot, and individuals can request in writing to be excluded from automatic ballot mailings. For those who request exclusion, the election authority will instead send them a traditional notice and application for vote by mail status in future elections. This approach aims to simplify the vote by mail process while maintaining voter verification and providing opt-out flexibility. The bill specifies detailed procedural requirements, such as the timing of ballot mailings and list publication, to ensure transparency and proper implementation of the new voting method.

Government Affairs

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=3355&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104