DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 654 Original 2016 Regular Session Gregory Miller
Abstract: Allows a person with a visible physical disability to execute an affidavit in order to
receive assistance in voting on election day and during early voting.
Present law (R.S. 18:564 and 1309.3) provides for assistance in voting on election day and during
early voting. Requires a person who seeks assistance in voting to file certain required documentation
with the registrar prior to voting or to present certain documentation to election officials at the polls.
Proposed law retains present law. Provides, however, that a person with a visible physical disability
who cannot meet the requirements of present law shall complete and sign an affidavit supplied by
the secretary of state stating that he is unable to vote without assistance because of a physical
disability and stating the nature of the disability. Requires the affidavit to include the person's date
of birth and mother's maiden name. Provides that if the person is unable to read or write or is
otherwise unable to complete the affidavit due to disability, the person may receive assistance in
completing the affidavit and the commissioner shall make a notation on the affidavit. Provides that
the person may receive the assistance of any person of his choice, including a commissioner, except
a candidate, commissioner-in-charge, the person's employer or employer's agent, or the person's
union agent. Requires the commissioners to place the affidavit in the envelope marked "Registrar
of Voters" and attach the envelope to the precinct register. Provides that the person shall then be
allowed to receive assistance in voting.
(Adds R.S. 18:564(D)(3) and 1309.3(D)(3))