Allows eligible disabled and military voters to continue to utilize electronically transmitted ballots as originally enacted in 2022.

RI Bill Summary: Electronic Ballot Transmission for Disabled and Military Voters

This bill preserves the ability of certain Rhode Island voters to receive and return their ballots electronically, rather than through traditional mail. Specifically, it maintains a voting option that was first established in 2022 for two groups: voters with disabilities and military voters, which typically includes active-duty service members and their families who may be stationed away from home.

Under this bill, eligible voters in these two categories can continue to use electronic means — such as email or an online portal — to receive and submit their ballots. Without this legislation, that option could have expired or been discontinued, effectively rolling back a voting accommodation that has been in place for several years. The bill essentially makes this electronic transmission process an ongoing, permanent feature of Rhode Island's election system rather than a temporary one.

The people most directly affected are Rhode Islanders with qualifying disabilities who may find it difficult or impossible to handle paper ballots, and military personnel or overseas citizens connected to Rhode Island who cannot easily access traditional mail. For these groups, the bill helps ensure they have a practical and accessible way to participate in elections. The bill has completed the full legislative process and has been signed into law by the Governor.