Bill > SB247

This bill creates the Arkansas Absentee Voter Integrity Act of 2025, which significantly modifies the procedures for handling, processing, and counting absentee ballots in Arkansas. The bill introduces a more rigorous verification process for absentee ballots, requiring two election officials to carefully review and compare voter materials, including names, addresses, dates of birth, and signatures. If any discrepancies are found, ballots can be designated as "provisional" and voters will have until the Monday following the election to cure or correct issues with their ballot. The bill mandates that absentee ballots can only be opened and counted starting at 8:30 a.m. on election day, and requires county election commissioners to provide public notice and allow public access to the absentee ballot processing. Additionally, the bill requires the State Board of Election Commissioners to develop new rules for maintaining ballot security, documenting chain of custody, and handling voter materials. If election officials suspect a ballot was fraudulently submitted, they must file complaints with the State Board of Election Commissioners and the county prosecuting attorney. The legislation aims to increase transparency, security, and integrity in the absentee voting process while providing voters with opportunities to correct potential issues with their ballots.

Government Affairs

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=sb247&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R