SB235

Senate Bill 235, titled the 'Arkansas Absentee Voter Integrity Act of 2023,' establishes new requirements for the handling, processing, and canvassing of absentee ballots in Arkansas. The bill mandates stricter procedures for election officials when opening absentee ballot envelopes, requiring two officials to work together to verify voter information, including names, addresses, dates of birth, and signatures. It introduces specific protocols for comparing absentee ballot applications with voter statements and identification documents. If discrepancies are found or required documents are missing, the bill dictates that the ballot must be set aside as 'provisional' for further review by the county board of election commissioners. Additionally, the bill outlines rules for handling ballots delivered by designated bearers, agents, or administrators to ensure they match information provided on applications. It also clarifies the roles of county clerks and election boards in maintaining the security and integrity of the absentee voting process.