HB293 Alabama 2015 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Reed IngramRepresentative

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2015

Title

Elections, photo ID must be presented voting absentee, Secs. 17-9-30, 17-10-1, 17-10-2, 17-11-9 am'd.

Summary

HB293 would require photo ID to be submitted with absentee ballot applications and would create a state-issued Alabama photo voter identification card, tightening ID rules for absentee voting and provisional ballots.

What This Bill Does

It requires voters applying for an absentee ballot to attach a copy of valid photo ID and prohibits issuing an absentee ballot until the ID requirement is satisfied (with some federal absentee voters exempt). It also authorizes the Secretary of State to issue an Alabama photo voter identification card at no cost, to be used for voting and containing specific details. In addition, the bill strengthens provisional ballot procedures for cases when ID is not provided or valid at voting sites and outlines how these ballots are to be processed, counted, and recorded. The bill assigns new duties to election officials and provides funding and rulemaking responsibilities to implement these changes and inform the public.

Who It Affects

• Voters who vote or plan to vote absentee in Alabama, who must attach a copy of valid photo ID with their absentee ballot application and may face provisional ballot rules if ID is not provided.
• Election officials and state offices (Secretary of State, boards of registrars, absentee election managers, canvassing boards) who will verify IDs, issue or manage absentee and provisional ballots, and maintain related records.

Key Provisions

• Absentee ballot applications must include a copy of a valid form of photo identification from a listed set (driver license, Alabama ID, US passport, military ID, student/employee ID with a photo, tribal ID, etc.).
• Notwithstanding the above, certain federal absentee voters (UOCAVA and related federal requirements) shall not be required to produce identification prior to voting.
• The Secretary of State must create and issue an Alabama photo voter identification card to registered electors at no charge, valid only for voting purposes, and containing specific data and a laminated photo.
• An absentee voter who cannot provide ID may have their absentee ballot treated as provisional, with additional procedures for notification, reidentification, and counting according to a defined timeline.
• Absentee ballots and on-site ballots with ID issues involve a multi-envelope system, affidavits, notary or witnesses, and procedures to ensure proper verification and confidentiality.
• Provisional ballots, challenges, and related certifications are governed by a structured process with timelines for reporting results and for boards to determine whether provisional votes are counted.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Elections