Providing voters multiple in-person ballot return options for mail ballots is an important part of expanding voting access. Ballot return options fall into three main categories: voting location drop off (i.e. a polling place or vote center), election office drop off, and drop box drop off.
Aside from allowing voters to hand deliver their ballots to their local election offices, voters should have the opportunity to bring their mailed-out ballots to a polling place or vote center. Doing so not only gives voters more convenient return options but provides them the opportunity to receive assistance, like requesting a replacement ballot or using an assistive voting device.
Ballot drop boxes are another accessible, convenient, and safe option for voters. With drop boxes, voters don’t need to worry about meeting postmarking deadlines or getting to an elections office before the close of business — they’re open 24/7.
Why It's Important
- Voter convenience. Many voters don’t own postage and are not familiar with the postal system. A common problem is that many voters unknowingly either put too little postage or none at all on their ballot return envelopes. Due to this confusion, those ballots may not be delivered and the voices of these voters go unheard.
- Improve accessibility. Voters with disabilities or with low mobility need options when it comes to returning their ballot. Ensuring they can visit a conveniently located site to return their ballot and receive assistance is crucial.
- Cost savings. For states that offer prepaid postage, in-person ballot return options can save the government money that would have been spent on postage.
- Ensures the timely return of ballots. Because in-person drop-off options cut out the postal service, voters can return ballots up to election day (typically by the close of polls) and be confident that their ballot will be received and counted on time.
- Increases trust. When they can place their ballot directly in the hands of election officials rather than mailing it in, voters may be more likely to trust that their ballot will be counted.
Relevant Research
Example Statutes
- CA Election Code §3017
- Includes drop boxes
- Includes polling place drop off
- Include vote centers drop off
- Washington RCW 29A.40.160
- Creates vote centers and allows ballot drop off
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