Election Law - Absentee Ballots - Duly Authorized Agents

HB 1042 requires that the restrictions on who can serve as an absentee ballot agent be clearly displayed on each specimen ballot. The bill prohibits a candidate's representative (including campaign staff or volunteers) from acting as an agent to pick up or deliver absentee ballots, with an exception allowing a family member of a candidate to designate the candidate or their representative. This directly affects voters who choose to use an agent for absentee ballots and election officials who must provide the required displays. The bill also mandates the State Board of Elections adopt regulations by January 1, 2026, and takes effect on October 1, 2025.