HB117 Alabama 2020 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Prince ChestnutRepresentative

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2020

Title

Absentee voting, authorize without providing excuse, Secs. 17-11-3, 17-11-7 am'd.

Summary

HB 117 would allow no-excuse absentee voting for qualified Alabama voters.

What This Bill Does

If passed, the bill would let any qualified voter apply for and vote an absentee ballot without having to show an excuse. The process would still require submitting an application at least five days before the election, with ballots possible by mail, hand delivery, or a commercial carrier as determined by the Secretary of State. It also keeps existing features like emergency absentee ballots, military/overseas voting provisions, and the affidavits and safeguards that prevent fraud or multiple ballots.

Who It Affects

• Registered voters in Alabama who want to vote absentee, who would no longer need to provide a specific reason.
• Election officials and absentee election managers who would administer the no-excuse absentee voting process, including handling applications, ballots, affidavits, and related safeguards.

Key Provisions

• Amends Sections 17-11-3 and 17-11-7 to authorize no-excuse absentee voting for qualified electors.
• Maintains absentee voting methods (mail, hand delivery, or commercial carrier) with applications due at least five days before the election.
• Preserves emergency absentee ballot provisions and the ability for the Secretary of State to adopt emergency rules during emergencies.
• Keeps existing safeguards, including affidavit requirements and penalties for false statements, to ensure ballot integrity and prevent fraudulent multiple ballots.
• Continues to accommodate military and overseas voters under the federal Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (FVAP).

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Elections