What are the key components of Washington’s existing program for military and overseas voters?
Washington currently allows a 51-day transit time for military voters in the general election. This is seven days more than most states that will be mailing ballots out 45 days prior to the election. Washington allows 21 days after the general election for military and overseas ballots to be returned. Most states require ballots to be returned by Election Day. Many states certify the election just a few days after Election Day so ballots received after certification do not count. Washington certifies the election 21 days after Election Day, which allows more time for ballots to be returned and counted. Washington overseas and military voters can register and vote on Election Day and still have time to return a ballot. Voters in most states must vote several weeks before the election to get the ballot back by Election Day.
