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Bill

SB 370

Elections: absent voters; signature matching and curing for absent voter ballot applications and absent voter ballot return envelopes; provide for, and provide for modifications to the absent voter ballot application and process. Amends secs. 759, 761 & 766 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.759 et seq.); adds secs. 766a & 766b & repeals sec. 759c of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.759c). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0339'23

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Winnie Brinks and 16 co-sponsors

Michigan law establishes signature-matching curing procedures for absentee ballots, allowing voters to fix mismatched signatures before rejection rather than losing voting power.

ASSIGNED PA 0082'23
#elections:absentvoters #elections:electionofficials #stateagencies(existing):state
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 370

Legislative bill overview

SB 370 reforms Michigan's absent voter ballot (absentee voting) processes by establishing signature matching and "curing" procedures for both ballot applications and return envelopes. The bill allows voters whose signatures don't match to be notified and given an opportunity to correct the problem before their ballot is rejected, while modifying application requirements and procedures.

Why is this important

Signature matching is a common reason for ballot rejection in absentee voting, and rejected ballots can disenfranchise voters through no fault of their own—signatures change over time and may not match voter registration records. This bill attempts to balance election security (verifying voter identity) with ballot access by creating a safety net before outright rejection, potentially reducing provisional and rejected ballots while maintaining signature verification standards.

Potential points of contention

  • Election security concerns: Critics may argue that curative procedures weaken signature verification safeguards or create opportunities for fraud, while proponents contend the procedures maintain security while preventing legitimate vote suppression
  • Administrative burden: Election officials must implement new notification and curing systems, raising questions about feasibility, cost, and whether all jurisdictions have capacity to execute additional procedures
  • Tied legislation (SB 339): The bill is linked to companion legislation (SB 0339'23), meaning changes to one may affect the other, creating uncertainty about the full scope of intended reforms

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

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