The state Board of Elections is asking through July 12 for comments on proposed rules changes to the implementation of the new voter ID law.
This includes photo ID requirement for absentee-by-mail voting.
The board will develop temporary rules by July 1 and permanent rules by Jan. 1. A public hearing is scheduled July 11.
In the 2019 elections still to be held, there is no photo ID requirement. The general election for the U.S. House seat in North Carolina’s District 9 is Sept 10; this fall’s election cycle includes municipal races throughout Bladen County.
In 2020, North Carolina voters will need to provide photo ID when voting in person or absentee-by-mail. There are some exceptions.
In a release, the state board says Session Law 2018-144 requires the State Board to adopt rules implementing photo ID for absentee-by-mail voting. More specifically, the proposed rule changes:
• Define the process for implementing photo ID for absentee-by-mail voting, including the requirement for voters to include a readable copy of their photo ID with an absentee ballot request or ballot return, with exceptions.
• Provide that exceptions to the ID requirement for voting in person — including reasonable impediment and religious objection — also apply to absentee-by-mail voters.
• Repeal and amend rules based on the previous voter ID law, which was repealed.
To make comments, email them to rules@ncsbe.gov or access the public comment portal at ncsbe.gov. Comments can also be mailed to the state board at State Board of Elections, Rulemaking, P.O. Box 27255. Raleigh, NC 27611-7255.
The July 11 public hearing is at 1 p.m. in the third floor board room of the state board offices, 430 N. Salisbury St. in Raleigh.