In a significant move affecting Kansas’ electoral process, the Republican-controlled legislature has overridden Governor Laura Kelly’s veto to tighten mail-in voting regulations.
This decision shortens the already limited window for voters to return mail-in ballots, sparking debates about voter accessibility and election integrity.
Key Details of the Legislation
- Elimination of Grace Period: The new law removes the existing three-day grace period after Election Day, requiring all mail-in ballots to be received by 7 p.m. on Election Day to be counted. Previously, ballots postmarked by Election Day could arrive by the following Friday.
- Implementation Timeline: The changes are set to take effect in 2026, impacting future elections and potentially altering voting patterns.
- Legislative Process: The override passed with a two-thirds majority:
- Senate Vote: 30-10
- House Vote: 84-41
Context and Impact
- Current Mail-In Voting Window: Kansas currently allows a 20-day period for mail-in voting, one of the shortest in the nation. The new law further compresses this timeframe, aligning Kansas with Iowa as the states with the shortest mail-in voting windows.
- Voter Participation Statistics: In the November 2024 elections, approximately 11% of registered Democrats and 6% of Republicans utilized mail-in voting. The grace period facilitated the counting of about 2,110 ballots out of over 1.3 million that arrived late.
- Criticism and Concerns: Opponents argue that eliminating the grace period could disenfranchise voters, especially those in rural areas or facing postal delays. They express concern that the law disproportionately affects certain demographics, including seniors, college students, and rural residents.
Comparison of Mail-In Voting Deadlines
| State | Mail Ballot Dispatch Deadline | Mail Ballot Return Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas | 20 days before Election Day | 7 p.m. on Election Day |
| Iowa | 20 days before Election Day | 7 p.m. on Election Day |
| Colorado | 22 days before Election Day | Received by Election Day |
| Washington | 18 days before Election Day | No specific deadline |
The Kansas legislature’s decision to override the governor’s veto and further restrict mail-in voting deadlines represents a pivotal shift in the state’s electoral landscape.
While aimed at addressing concerns over ballot processing, this move raises questions about voter accessibility and the potential for reduced participation.
As the 2026 elections approach, the full impact of these changes will become clearer, influencing how Kansans engage with the voting process.
