Entitles disabled and military voters to utilize electronically transmitted ballots.

## Summary of Rhode Island Bill: Electronically Transmitted Ballots for Disabled and Military Voters

This bill allows two specific groups of voters in Rhode Island — people with disabilities and military members — to receive and submit their ballots electronically. Instead of relying solely on traditional paper mail ballots, these voters would be entitled to use ballots that are sent and returned through electronic means, such as email or an online system. This is designed to make voting more accessible and convenient for people who may face unique challenges in using the standard mail ballot process.

For voters with disabilities, this change addresses barriers that can make it difficult to physically handle, read, or return a paper ballot through the mail. For military voters, who are often stationed far from home — sometimes overseas — electronic transmission can eliminate the delays and uncertainties of international or long-distance mail delivery. Both groups would gain a legally protected right to use this method of voting rather than depending on it as a special accommodation.

The bill passed through the Rhode Island legislature with amendments and has been signed into law by the Governor. It amends the existing state laws governing mail ballots to specifically include provisions for electronically transmitted ballots for these two groups. The bill does not change voting rules for the general public — it is narrowly focused on expanding options for disabled and military voters to help ensure their votes are counted reliably and on time.