LANSING – House Bill 4478, introduced by state Representative Andy Schor (D-Lansing), passed the Senate today and will go to the governor’s desk for his signature after receiving final approval in the House. This legislation allows those who are unable to write and individuals who cannot sign their signature because of a physical disability to use a signature stamp on certain election documents. Current law allows individuals who are unable to write their name to make a mark (X) when applying to register to vote.
“The voting process is all about giving everyone a voice to decide who they want representing them,” Schor said. “This legislation ensures that voice can be expressed with dignity. Physically disabled citizens should not be forced to make an ‘X’ and should be allowed to use a legally recognized signature stamp when they exercise one of their most important constitutional rights and civic duties. I’m thrilled to help provide dignity in voting for these individuals when they cast their ballots.”
Election documents that can be signed under this bill include voter applications, absentee ballot applications and absentee ballot return envelopes. The bill requires that if an individual chooses to use a signature stamp to sign an election document, the clerk would have to regain or keep their mark or signature on file for verification purposes.