HB45 Alabama 2026 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Adline ClarkeRepresentative

Democrat

Session

2026 Regular Session

Title

Absentee voting; designee to deliver voter's absentee ballot application and absentee ballot to absentee election manager for disabled voter, authorized

Summary

HB45 would let a disabled voter designate someone to deliver their absentee ballot application (and return envelope) to election officials, and it defines disability for this purpose.

What This Bill Does

If enacted, the bill amends sections 17-11-4 and 17-11-9 to permit a disabled voter's designee to deliver the absentee ballot application to the absentee election manager (and, in some cases, the return envelope). It defines what counts as a disability for this purpose and keeps existing rules about signatures, witness requirements, and penalties for improper handling of absentee applications. The act would take effect immediately upon the Governor's approval.

Who It Affects

• Disabled voters who may have difficulty delivering their own absentee ballot application or return envelope, as they can appoint a designee to do so on their behalf.
• Individuals chosen by disabled voters as designees (family, friends, or caregivers) who will be allowed to deliver the application and/or return envelope to election officials under the bill's rules.

Key Provisions

• Allows a disabled voter's designee to deliver the voter's absentee ballot application to the absentee election manager in person (and for emergencies as defined by the bill).
• Allows a disabled voter's designee to hand deliver the return envelope for the absentee ballot (or send it by mail or carrier), with the disability definition applying to this delivery.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 12, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Elections, Voting, & Campaigns