SB11 Alabama 2013 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Greg J. Reed

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2013

Title

Voting, absentee voting when a gubernatorial declaration of a state of emergency, Secs. 17-11-3, 17-11-7 am'd.

Summary

The bill would allow any registered Alabama voter who cannot vote at their regular polling place because of a Governor-declared state emergency to vote by absentee ballot.

What This Bill Does

It amends the absentee voting law to include Governor-declared state emergencies as a valid reason to request and vote an emergency absentee ballot. Eligible voters must apply to the local absentee election manager by close of business the day before the election and complete the prescribed form with an affidavit describing the emergency. The process uses the standard absentee ballot framework, including required affidavits and handling by election officials, with the bill taking effect immediately after the Governor signs it.

Who It Affects

• Registered voters in Alabama who cannot vote at their regular polling place due to a Governor-declared state emergency, who would then be eligible to cast an emergency absentee ballot.
• Election officials and absentee election managers who administer the emergency absentee ballot process and ensure proper forms, affidavits, and handling of such ballots.

Key Provisions

• Adds governor-declared state emergency as a qualifying reason for using an emergency absentee ballot under Sections 17-11-3 and 17-11-7.
• Requires eligible voters to apply for an emergency absentee ballot by the close of business on the day before the election and to submit the designated form with an affidavit describing the emergency circumstances.
• Outlines that the ballot must be processed under the standard absentee ballot procedures, including the affidavit and certification requirements, with penalties for knowingly providing false information.
• States that the act becomes effective immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Voters and Voting