Alabama House Bill HB31

Alabama 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/4/25
• Refer: 2/4/25

Caption

Voting, absentee voting, disabled, blind, or voters unable to read may designate individual to deliver voter's absentee ballot application and absentee ballot to absentee election manager

Impact

If enacted, HB31 would revise Sections 17-11-4 and 17-11-9 of the Code of Alabama 1975, creating new avenues for voters who require assistance due to physical disabilities, blindness, or inability to read or write. Supporters believe that this change will significantly improve voter participation among these groups by simplifying the absentee voting process and making it more accessible. Additionally, the bill aims to bring the language of the law in line with current practices, ensuring that the terminology used reflects contemporary standards.

Summary

House Bill 31 (HB31) is an initiative aimed at enhancing access to absentee voting for individuals with disabilities, blindness, or literacy issues. The bill proposes amendments to existing provisions regarding absentee ballot applications and the delivery of ballots, allowing these voters to designate another person to submit their applications and ballots to the absentee election manager. This is intended to alleviate barriers faced by disabled or illiterate voters who may struggle to navigate the absentee voting process independently.

Contention

While proponents tout the bill as a necessary expansion of voting rights, there may be potential concerns about the implementation of such changes. Discussions may arise regarding the safeguards needed to ensure that the process remains secure and that individuals designated to assist voters do so without exploitation or coercion. Opposition to the bill could stem from fears of unauthorized assistance or tampering with voter intent, especially given the legal emphasis on individual voter responsibility within the current framework.