To Create The No-excuse Absentee Voting Act Of 2025; To Amend The Law Concerning Absentee Voting; And To Repeal Voter Qualifications For Absentee Voting.
Impact
If enacted, HB1038 would significantly impact the absentee voting landscape in Arkansas by streamlining the process and enhancing voter accessibility. The bill aims to promote higher voter participation by removing barriers that previously required justification for absentee voting. Automatic mailing of absentee ballots is also mandated for those who meet the requirements, providing convenience and encouraging participation, particularly for those who may have difficulty accessing polling places on election day.
Summary
House Bill 1038, titled the No-Excuse Absentee Voting Act of 2025, seeks to amend existing laws related to absentee voting in Arkansas. The primary focus of the bill is to eliminate the prior qualifications required for voters to cast an absentee ballot. Previously, voters had to meet specific criteria, such as being away from their voting place on election day, suffering from a disability, or being unable to attend due to religious practices. The passage of this bill would allow any registered voter in Arkansas to obtain an absentee ballot without having to provide an excuse for their absence on voting day.
Contention
Despite the potential benefits of HB1038, there are notable points of contention surrounding the bill. Critics argue that removing qualifications for absentee voting could lead to concerns over election integrity, including the potential for increased opportunities for voter fraud. Proponents, however, counter that making absentee voting more accessible is crucial for boosting participation and not having an excuse reinforces the notion that voting should be a right available to all citizens, regardless of their circumstances. The discussions around the bill reflect a larger national conversation about voting rights and accessibility.
To Clarify The Length Of Time For Which An Application For An Absentee Ballot Is Effective; To Amend The Law Concerning Absentee Ballot Applications; And To Amend The Law Concerning Voting By Absentee Ballot.
To Clarify, Create Uniformity In, And Simplify The Absentee Ballot Process; And To Amend The Law Concerning The Application Form And Materials Furnished To Qualified Voters With An Absentee Ballot.
To Create The Arkansas Absentee Voter Integrity Act Of 2023; To Amend The Law Concerning Counting Absentee Ballots; To Amend The Law Concerning Elections; And To Amend The Law Concerning The Duties Of The Secretary Of State.