Bill > S2576

This bill aims to improve election mail procedures and requirements through several key provisions. First, it mandates that the United States Postal Service process and clear ballots on the same day they are received, ensuring faster handling of election mail. The bill requires states to use Intelligent Mail Barcodes on ballot return envelopes, which will help track and verify ballots, with an implementation date of January 1, 2026. Additionally, the Postal Service must postmark ballots to indicate the date of mailing, and election officials must use specific tags and logos to increase ballot visibility. The legislation also treats election mail as first-class mail and prohibits the Postal Service from making operational changes that could restrict ballot delivery during the 120 days before an election. The bill further requires the Postmark General to consult annually with Indian Tribes about postal service barriers to voting on tribal lands and establishes a uniform national standard that ballots postmarked on or before Election Day and received within seven days after the election must be counted. These provisions are designed to make voting by mail more efficient, transparent, and accessible across federal elections.

Government Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2576/all-info