Allows qualified voters to receive an absentee ballot if they cannot appear at the polling place due to religious observance or practice.

This bill amends the election law to authorize absentee voting for qualified voters who cannot appear at the polling place due to religious observance or practice. This provision is added alongside existing reasons for absentee voting, such as illness, physical disability, or being out of the county or city of residence. The change will take effect on January 1, 2026, and apply to any general, primary, run-off primary, or special election held thereafter.

Allows qualified voters to receive an absentee ballot if they cannot appear at the polling place due to religious observance or practice.

This bill amends the election law to authorize absentee voting for qualified voters who cannot appear at the polling place due to religious observance or practice. This provision is added alongside existing reasons for absentee voting, such as illness, physical disability, or being out of the county or city of residence. The change will take effect on January 1, 2026, and apply to any general, primary, run-off primary, or special election held thereafter.