Bill > SB1174

This bill modifies Missouri state law regarding the handling of rejected absentee ballots, creating a more detailed process for addressing ballot issues. Under the new provisions, if an absentee ballot is rejected due to incomplete statements, lack of voter signature, invalid signature, or other legal disqualifications, the election authority must write "Rejected" across the ballot envelope and specify the reason for rejection. The election authority is now required to promptly notify the voter about the ballot's rejection, explain how to cure the ballot, and provide a deadline for doing so. Voters will have until the end of the period for verifying provisional ballots to correct their ballot's deficiencies. To cure a rejected ballot, voters can submit an affidavit to the election authority along with a copy of a legally acceptable form of identification, affirming their identity, ballot ownership, and voter registration status. If the voter successfully demonstrates their qualification to vote, the absentee ballot will be counted. This bill aims to provide voters with a clear opportunity to address and potentially remedy issues with their absentee ballots, potentially reducing the number of uncounted votes due to technical errors.

Government Affairs

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=682