AB 16

Bill Subjects

Vote By Mail Ballots Processing

Abstract

Existing law authorizes a jurisdiction to begin processing vote by mail ballot return envelopes and, if the jurisdiction has the necessary computer capability, vote by mail ballots 29 days before an election. This bill would instead require elections officials to begin processing vote by mail ballot return envelopes and vote by mail ballots on the date on which the ballots are mailed. By requiring local elections officials to begin processing vote by mail ballot return envelopes and vote by mail ballots at an earlier time, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.