2021 Senate Bill 285

Republican election rules package to establish rules on the use of absentee ballot drop boxes by cities and townships

Introduced in the Senate

March 24, 2021

Introduced by Sen. Lana Theis (R-22)

To require a person to show an original or a copy of identification when requesting an absentee ballot in person or by mail, with those unable to do so getting a "provisional" ballot that facilitates confirming its validity. This is part of a Republican election integrity legislative package comprised of Senate Bills 273 to 311.

Referred to the Committee on Elections

June 3, 2021

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (S-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

June 16, 2021

Passed in the Senate 19 to 16 (details)

To require a person to show an original or a copy of identification when requesting an absentee ballot in person or by mail, with those unable to do so getting a "provisional" ballot that facilitates confirming its validity. See also Senate Bills 303 and 304 authorize the “provisional” ballots, which require a voter to show documents within six days that verify his or her identity and address, without which the vote would not be counted.

Received in the House

June 16, 2021

Referred to the Committee on Elections and Ethics