The League of Women Voters of Bowling Green believes Ohioans deserve a voting system that counts every valid ballot, not one that discards votes because of postal delays no one can control. That’s why we’re deeply concerned about Senate Bill 293, which would throw out absentee ballots that arrive after Election Day—even if they were mailed on time by eligible voters and properly postmarked.
Here in Bowling Green, our mail is sent to Detroit for sorting before coming back to us. This round-trip can take days or even weeks. Under SB 293, a voter who follows every rule could still lose their voice simply because their ballot took the long journey through Michigan and back. This isn’t election integrity—it’s voter punishment.
In the 2024 election, more than 9,500 Ohio ballots arrived during the current four-day post-election window. These votes were valid, lawful, and cast by eligible Ohioans. SB 293 would throw them away.
Governor DeWine has said Ohio’s election system is already strong and doesn’t need more changes. We urge Ohioans to contact Governor DeWine and ask him to VETO SB 293 to ensure all lawful votes continue to count and protect the votes of everyday Ohioans—especially rural voters, seniors, people with disabilities, and anyone who relies on voting by mail.
Shar Katzner
President, League of Women Voters of Bowling Green
