Bill > HB586

This bill prohibits any person from mailing unsolicited absentee ballot request forms to other people. Specifically, the legislation amends existing Ohio state law to make it illegal for public officials, employees, or any private individuals to mail out absentee ballot applications that have not been specifically requested by a voter. The bill establishes that anyone who violates this prohibition will face legal consequences, with a first offense being a first-degree misdemeanor and subsequent offenses being considered a fifth-degree felony. The legislation also reinforces existing rules about absentee ballot applications, such as requiring voters to provide specific identifying information like their name, signature, address, date of birth, and either a driver's license number, last four digits of their social security number, or a copy of a photo ID when requesting an absentee ballot. The bill aims to prevent unsolicited distribution of absentee ballot request forms, which supporters likely argue could potentially lead to voter confusion or manipulation of the voting process.

Government Affairs

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb586