Governor signs mail ballot, curbside voting expansion into law

Governor signs mail ballot, curbside voting expansion into law

Gov. JB Pritzker signed into law Friday a measure that expands vote-by-mail and curbside voting options in Illinois, solidifying permanent access to methods that were previously used as emergency procedures during the 2020 general election.

The governor signed Senate Bill 825, which allows local election authorities to establish permanent ballot drop boxes, expands mail-in ballot opportunities, and makes curbside voting permanent for those who are unable to enter a polling place.

"This legislation is about ensuring that every voter in Illinois has the opportunity to have their voice heard," Pritzker said in a statement. "By making these voting options permanent, we are removing barriers and making it easier for every citizen to participate in our democracy."

The legislation passed both the House and the Senate with bipartisan support. Advocates for the bill argued that these methods not only increased voter turnout during the pandemic but also provided necessary flexibility for working families, people with disabilities, and those who may have trouble getting to the polls on Election Day.

Critics of the bill raised concerns about the potential for voter fraud, though election officials have maintained that the systems in place are secure and that there is no evidence of widespread issues with mail-in or curbside voting in the state.

The new law will take effect immediately, ensuring that these options are available for future elections, including upcoming municipal and primary contests.