Illinois State Senator Chapin Rose introduced Senate Bill 0181, an election reform measure that would significantly alter voting procedures in the state. The bill, if passed, would implement several key changes to Illinois’ election laws:

Voter Identification Requirements

The most notable provision of SB0181 is the introduction of a voter identification requirement. Under the proposed law, voters would need to present a government-issued photo ID or a new “Voter Identification Card” when casting their ballots. The Secretary of State would be responsible for issuing these Voter Identification Cards to registered voters who lack other acceptable forms of photo ID.

Currently, Illinois does not require voters to show photo identification to vote. The existing law allows voters to cast a ballot by simply stating their name and address to election judges at their polling place.

Changes to Vote by Mail Procedures

The bill also proposes significant modifications to Illinois’ vote-by-mail system:

• Shortens the application period for vote-by-mail ballots from 90 days to 30 days before an election
• Eliminates the option for voters to apply for permanent vote by mail status
• Requires vote-by-mail ballots to be counted within 7 days after the election, rather than the current 14-day period

Other Key Provisions

SB0181 includes several other notable changes to election procedures:

• Prohibits the use of residential buildings, including apartments and dormitories, as polling places
• Requires election authorities to establish at least two vote center locations
• Expands the definition of “electioneering” to include the distribution of food or drinks to voters near polling places
• Mandates that election authorities keep secure records of the number of ballots printed and distributed
• Proposes eliminating the option for voters to apply for permanent vote by mail status
• Restricts the collection of mail-in ballots by individuals, making it a felony to submit more than three on behalf of others

This bill has been referred to assignments.