Rhode Island · 2026 Regular Session · Bill
HB 7979: AN ACT RELATING TO ELECTIONS -- MAIL BALLOTS
In committee Official data
- Introduced
- In committee
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Enacted
Last official action: ·Record last updated:
Plain-language summary
HB 7979 is a bill introduced in the Rhode Island House on February 27, 2026. According to its official title, it concerns: AN ACT RELATING TO ELECTIONS -- MAIL BALLOTS. Primary sponsor: Jenni Furtado (Democratic), Jay Edwards (Democratic), Mary Messier (Democratic). Most recent recorded action (March 26, 2026): 03/26/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study.
Generated automatically from the official title, sponsor list, and status record only. It does not characterize the bill’s purpose or effects. How summaries are written
Official summary
Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.
Amends the procedures for the marking and certification of mail ballots by prohibiting anyone but the voter or certain persons close to the voter from handling the mail ballot.
Sponsors
Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 3
| Name | Role | Party | Chamber | District |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jenni Furtado | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 64 |
| Jay Edwards | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 70 |
| Mary Messier | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 62 |
“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.
Recent official actions
- 03/26/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
- 03/20/2026 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (03/26/2026)
- 02/27/2026 Introduced, referred to House State Government & Elections