Bill > S0001

This bill, the S.C. Election Reform Act, introduces several changes to South Carolina's election laws, primarily focusing on voter identification and early voting. Key provisions include requiring voters to present a photo ID when voting, with acceptable forms including a driver's license, passport, military ID, or a new South Carolina voter registration card that will now include a photograph issued by the State Election Commission. If a voter cannot produce the required photo ID, they may cast a provisional ballot, which will only be counted if they later provide valid photo identification to the county board of registration and elections before the election is certified, or if they submit an affidavit explaining a religious objection to being photographed or a reasonable impediment to obtaining photo identification. The bill also establishes an early voting period, allowing registered voters to cast their ballots in person at designated early voting centers for fifteen days before an election, and mandates a voter education program to inform the public about these new requirements. Additionally, it modifies the process for obtaining special identification cards from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), making them free for individuals aged seventeen and older, and clarifies the definition of domicile for voting purposes by listing various factors to consider. The bill also updates procedures for absentee voting, including the types of individuals eligible and the process for requesting and returning absentee ballots, and requires the State Election Commission to maintain a list of registered voters who do not have a South Carolina-issued photo ID.