Absentee Ballot Process: What You Need to Know
ABSENTEE BALLOT PROCESS
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how we conduct business, educate our children, and go about our daily lives. It has also changed our election process.
In July, the legislature passed a law, making all residents eligible to vote by absentee ballot (AB) in the November general election citing COVID-19 as their reason. All you need to do is check the appropriate box on the application.
This legislation was passed to make sure all residents have the opportunity to exercise their right to vote in a way that is safe and secure during this public health crisis.
Here’s how the process works:
STEP ONE:
In September, the Secretary of the State’s (SOTS) office will mail absentee ballot applications to all registered voters. You may also access the application online through the SOTS’s website.
STEP TWO:
Complete your application and return it by mail via the United States Postal Service (USPS) or place it in a designated ballot drop box; most are located outside your local town hall. Check with your town for drop box locations.
STEP THREE:
Once applications have been received, an official absentee ballot will be mailed to you beginning October 2, 2020. Complete and return your absentee ballot in the same manner as your absentee ballot application (USPS or Official Ballot Drop Box).
***Please be advised that only immediate family members and health care providers may assist an individual with their ballot. All absentee ballots must be received by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day.
YOU CAN STILL VOTE IN PERSON
Of course, residents who prefer to vote in person may do so at the usual polling locations between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. on Election Day, November 3, 2020. However, if you submit an absentee ballot, but later decide to vote in person, only your in-person ballot will count, and your absentee ballot will be discarded.
Election Resources
Absentee Ballot Application: Click Here
Absentee Ballot Fact Sheet: Click Here
Explanation of Absentee Ballot Process: Click Here
Voter Registration Lookup: Click Here
Additional Election Information from the SOTS: Click Here