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HB 77

Voting, absentee voting; designee to deliver voter's absentee ballot application and absentee ballot to absentee election manager for disabled voter, authorized

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Adline Clarke

Alabama bill permits disabled voters to authorize representatives to deliver absentee ballot applications and ballots to election officials, expanding voting access for citizens with mobility barriers.

Read for the first time and referred to the House Committee on Constitution, Campaigns and Elections
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Bill Summary · HB 77

Legislative bill overview

HB 77 would authorize disabled voters in Alabama to designate another person to deliver their absentee ballot application and absentee ballot to election officials on their behalf. Currently, Alabama law does not explicitly permit this practice, which can create barriers for voters with mobility or health limitations. The bill aims to streamline the absentee voting process for this population without expanding mail-in voting access broadly.

Why is this important

Disabled voters may face significant obstacles obtaining or submitting absentee ballots independently due to transportation, mobility, or health constraints. Clarifying that a designated representative can deliver these materials reduces practical barriers to voting while maintaining election security through official election manager submission. This affects thousands of Alabamians with disabilities seeking to participate in elections.

Potential points of contention

  • Chain of custody concerns: Critics may worry that allowing third-party delivery of ballots creates opportunities for ballot tampering or coercion, even if unintentional
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill may lack clear specifications about who qualifies as a "designee," identity verification requirements, or what documentation is needed
  • Scope of disability: Questions about whether "disabled voter" is defined sufficiently or if eligibility criteria are too broad or too narrow for practical implementation

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

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