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HB 7451

AN ACT RELATING TO ELECTIONS -- MAIL BALLOTS

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jackie Baginski and 4 co-sponsors

HB 7451 tightens mail-ballot voting by requiring ID on applications and clarifying delivery and certification rules, including strengthened emergency-ballot provisions.

04/16/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 7451

Summary of HB 7451 (Rhode Island, 2026) — Elections: Mail Ballots

Purpose and intent

HB 7451, introduced January 30, 2026, would amend Rhode Island law governing mail ballots and emergency mail ballots. The central aim is to modify the requirements for mail ballot applications and the processing of mail ballots to ensure additional identification information is collected and to clarify procedures for various categories of mail ballots. The act takes effect upon passage.

Key provisions and changes

  • Required identification on mail-ballot applications (new requirement):

    • Applications for mail ballots must include one of the following:
    • Rhode Island driver’s license number, or state ID number, if the ID is unexpired or expired no more than six months before the election; or
    • The last four digits of the voter's Social Security number.
    • This applies to applications made in person, by mail, or electronically.

  • Help for voters unable to sign (unchanged structure, reinforced):

    • For voters who cannot sign due to blindness, disability, or inability to read/write, a designated box must be checked to indicate the reason, and the form must include the full name, residence address, signature, and optionally the phone and email of the person who assisted the voter. The assistance representation is under perjury.

  • Timing for receiving mail ballots (deadlines clarified):

    • To receive a mail ballot, an application must be received by the local board (in person, by mail, or electronically) no later than 4:00 p.m. on the 21st day before Election Day.
    • If an application is postmarked by the 21st day before the election and received by the 18th day before the election, it is treated as received on or before the last day to apply.

  • Validity and delivery of mail ballots (expanded and standardized):

    • Mail ballots issued under § 17-20-2(1) must be mailed to the address provided by the elector; the voter must sign the certifying envelope.
    • Mail ballots issued under § 17-20-2(2) (institutionalized voters) must be delivered to the elector at the institution where they are confined, with the name/address on the application stated under oath.
    • Mail ballots issued under § 17-20-2(3) must be mailed to the address on the application or sent to the local board; the voter must sign the certifying envelope. Voters in this category are also eligible under UOCAVA (federal military/overseas voters).
    • Mail ballots issued under § 17-20-2(4) can be mailed to the elector’s domestic address or sent to the local board; voters must sign the certifying envelope. Ballots delivered to the board must be voted under § 17-20-14.2.

  • Emergency mail ballots (detailed framework):

    • Eligible voters may obtain an emergency mail ballot up to 20 days before an election.
    • Applications must include the identification number (as above).
    • Emergency ballots can be delivered in person, by mail, or electronically; timelines mirror standard emergency deadlines.
    • Delivery/processing rules align with the corresponding emergency categories (1–4), including hospital/convalescent-home voting, and UOCAVA provisions.
    • An emergency ballot delivered to the board for voting must be voted in conformance with § 17-20-14.2, with signatures on certifying envelopes.
    • The Secretary of State must provide enough emergency ballots to local boards and boards must return unused ballots promptly after each election.
    • An emergency application may be completed in person via an electronic poll pad, with proof of identity, after which a ballot is issued and then cast on a state-approved electronic voting device in a secured manner.

  • Penalties for false applications or certifications:

    • Felony penalties apply to knowingly false applications or certifications or aiding and abetting.

  • Handling of changed circumstances (no automatic disqualification):

    • If a voter's circumstances change between application and voting, the mail-ballot eligibility remains, and the local board must notify the state board of changes in writing.

Who is affected

  • Legally qualified Rhode Island electors who choose to vote by mail or use emergency mail ballots.
  • Voters in hospitals, nursing homes, convalescent facilities, or other institutions.
  • Local boards of canvassers and the Rhode Island Secretary of State, who administer mail-ballot processes.
  • Voters needing assistance due to disability or illiteracy (provisions for assistance remain in place with enhanced record-keeping).
  • Potentially and implicitly, overseas/UOCAVA voters, through harmonized provisions.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Effective date: Upon passage.
  • Standard mail ballots:
    • Applications must be received by 4:00 p.m. on the 21st day before Election Day; late postmarks may be accepted if received by the 18th day prior.
  • Emergency mail ballots:
    • Applications must be received by 4:00 p.m. on the last day before the election (with up to 20 days ahead for emergency access).
  • Processing:
    • Local boards of canvassers must process all mail-ballot and emergency-ballot applications and report changes to the Secretary of State.
    • Ballots issued through boards must be delivered to voters in accordance with specific delivery rules, and ballots returned must comply with signature/certification requirements.
  • Penalties:
    • Felony penalties for false applications/certifications.

Overall, HB 7451 tightens identification requirements on mail-ballot applications, clarifies delivery and certification procedures, enhances emergency-ballot processes, and maintains strong anti-fraud provisions.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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