Postal Service Enforces Stricter Mail-In Ballot Rules Over Court Objections
The U.S. Postal Service announced new guidelines requiring states to provide citizenship-based voter lists within 60 days of the midterm election to receive mail-in ballots. This move follows a March executive order that a federal judge blocked in August, citing potential confusion so close to the vote. The agency's 95-page report is scheduled for official release on Aug. 26.
The new USPS directive ties ballot delivery to state-submitted voter rolls that verify citizenship, with a 60-day compliance window before the midterm election. This requirement originates from an executive order issued in March, which a federal judge halted in August, ruling that enforcing it so near the vote could create confusion among election administrators and the public.
The agency's complete guidelines are contained in a 95-page document slated for public release on August 26. The announcement follows the court's rejection, indicating the Postal Service is proceeding with the policy despite legal objections, leaving states to adapt to the new rules during an already contentious election season.
This policy could affect voters who depend on mail-in ballots, especially in states with decentralized registration systems. The 60-day deadline may pressure election officials to overhaul procedures quickly, potentially leading to inconsistent implementation across jurisdictions. If enforced, voters in states unable to comply could face delayed or denied ballots, raising concerns about access and uniformity. The earlier court block suggests ongoing legal challenges may determine whether the guidelines ultimately take effect.