Maryland HB830 modifies absentee ballot signature requirements and verification processes.

Maryland HB830 revises absentee ballot procedures, requiring local boards to verify voter signatures on return envelopes or ballots. It mandates that a local board may not count an absentee ballot unless the return envelope or ballot is signed by the voter and, except under certain circumstances, a witness. The bill exempts absentee ballots voted and returned by active duty members of the uniformed services serving overseas and their spouses or dependents living overseas from the witness signature requirement. The State Board must assess and revise guidelines before each primary election.

Maryland HB830 modifies absentee ballot signature requirements and verification processes.

Maryland HB830 revises absentee ballot procedures, requiring local boards to verify voter signatures on return envelopes or ballots. It mandates that a local board may not count an absentee ballot unless the return envelope or ballot is signed by the voter and, except under certain circumstances, a witness. The bill exempts absentee ballots voted and returned by active duty members of the uniformed services serving overseas and their spouses or dependents living overseas from the witness signature requirement. The State Board must assess and revise guidelines before each primary election.