Alabama House Bill HB100

Alabama 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/7/23

Caption

Relating to absentee voting; to amend Sections 17-11-4 and 17-11-9, Code of Alabama 1975, to allow a disabled voter to designate an individual to deliver the voter's application for an absentee ballot to the absentee election manager; to allow a disabled voter to designate an individual to deliver the voter's absentee ballot to the absentee election manager; and to make nonsubstantive, technical revisions to update the existing code language to current style.

Impact

The implications of HB100 on state election laws are significant as it directly affects the provisions related to absentee voting outlined in Sections 17-11-4 and 17-11-9 of the Alabama Code. The amendment facilitates greater participation in the electoral process by removing barriers that disabled voters face during absentee voting. Supporters of the bill believe this fosters inclusion and aligns with the rightful expectations of all voters to have equitable opportunities to vote, regardless of physical limitations. The bill's provisions also incorporate technical revisions to update the language of existing election laws to ensure clarity and modern relevance.

Summary

House Bill 100 amends the Code of Alabama to enhance the absentee voting process for disabled voters. The key provisions of the bill allow a disabled voter to designate another individual to deliver both the absentee ballot application and the completed ballot to the absentee election manager. This change aims to improve the accessibility of the voting process for individuals with disabilities who may have difficulties in submitting these materials independently. By expanding the authority of disabled voters to appoint someone for assistance, HB100 seeks to ensure that this group is not disenfranchised due to logistical barriers in the voting process.

Contention

While there is a broad consensus on the need to support disabled voters, discussions surrounding HB100 may still feature contentions regarding potential implications for election integrity. Critics may question the security protocols involved in allowing designees to handle ballots and applications. Proponents, on the other hand, would emphasize that the ability for disabled persons to seek assistance is essential for upholding democratic values by ensuring that all citizens can effectively participate in elections, thereby mitigating any points of contention regarding the perceived risks to the absentee voting process.