What is ACLU Ohio absentee voting focused on right now?

It centers on SB 293’s end to Ohio’s four-day grace period for mailed ballots. The change requires ballots to arrive by Election Day, not just be postmarked. The ACLU is signaling continued advocacy, and potential litigation that could seek temporary relief, clearer guidance, or both ahead of the May 5 primary.

When do Ohio’s new absentee rules take effect?

The rule change takes effect in mid-March, roughly seven weeks before the May 5 primary. From that point, mailed ballots must be received by Election Day to count. Voters should request ballots earlier, return them sooner, or use secure ballot drop boxes where available to avoid delivery risks.

How might SB 293 affect turnout and campaign budgets?

Without a grace period, late-mailed ballots face higher rejection risk, which can trim mail-in turnout. Campaigns will likely reallocate toward earlier mail, more voter education, ballot status reminders, and rides to drop boxes. Expect earlier persuasion and chase programs to protect on-time returns and lower last-week waste.

Are more ballot drop boxes likely in 2026?

Pressure to expand drop boxes is growing, but changes remain uncertain. Some officials support more secure sites to offset mail delays, while others favor the current limits. Watch local board decisions, funding, or litigation. Any expansion would reduce mail risk and support timely returns under the new rule.

Law and Government

ACLU Trend January 4: Ohio SB 293 Mail Ballot Deadline Lawsuit Watch

ByDanny Kontos January 5, 2026January 5, 2026

ACLU Ohio absentee voting is back in focus as SB 293 ends the four-day grace period for mailed ballots. Starting mid-March, ballots must arrive by Election Day to count, ahead of Ohio’s May 5 primary. A pending Supreme Court case on receipt deadlines could change the rules again. We see legal, turnout, and operations risk for Ohio campaigns and vendors. Investors should model tighter mail timelines, limited ballot drop boxes, and possible litigation that may disrupt plans and budgets in Q2.