New Hampshire implements stricter ID rules for absentee ballots

Absentee ballots for the September 8 primary have been distributed to city and town clerk offices across New Hampshire. Under new regulations, voters must adhere to stricter identity verification requirements to obtain a ballot.

Following the passage of Senate Bill 287, signed by Governor Kelly Ayotte, absentee voters can no longer use an affidavit to establish identity. Instead, voters must either present an ID in person at their town hall, provide a photocopy of their ID via mail, or obtain a notarized signature. These changes align with House Bill 1569, which requires hard copies of identification for in-person voting.

Absentee voting remains restricted to those with specific excuses, such as physical disability, illness, work commitments, religious observance, or temporary absence from town. While supporters argue these measures enhance election security, opponents express concern that the new requirements could create barriers for voters with disabilities.