Policy Letters

Letters to the States

FVAP works closely with state and local election officials to improve the voting process and experience for citizens covered under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA). At times, FVAP may express its views on state legislation, current law or regulations through an official letter.

Wisconsin:

  • Witness Requirements, March 14, 2017
    FVAP sent a letter with concerns regarding the state's requirement that a witness signature and address from another U.S. citizen accompany UOCAVA voters' returned absentee ballots, including the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot.
  • Intend to Return, March 13, 2017
    FVAP sent a letter with concerns regarding the state's statute that designates the treatment of overseas citizens who "intend to return to the U.S." as state absentee voters, which excludes them from protections under UOCAVA.

New York:

  • Intend to Return, April 3, 2017
    FVAP sent a letter with concerns regarding the state's statute that designates the treatment of overseas citizens who "intend to return to the U.S." as state absentee voters, which excludes them from protections under UOCAVA.
  • Voter ID Bill, March 1, 2017
    FVAP sent a letter informing the state of the impacts of proposed legislation on UOCAVA citizens regarding the requirement to provide government-issued ID in order to apply for or submit their absentee ballot.

Virginia:

  • Voter ID Bill, February 6, 2017
    FVAP sent a letter informing the state of the impacts of proposed legislation on UOCAVA citizens regarding the requirement to provide a copy of photo ID that shows their name and address when attempting to vote by mail.
  • Use of Digital Signatures, January 30, 2017
    FVAP sent a letter informing the state of the impacts of proposed legislation on UOCAVA citizens regarding the use of Common Access Card digital signatures on election materials.

Washington:

  • Postal Issues, January 30, 2017
    FVAP sent a letter to help address the concerns brought to the state office's attention regarding the rate of undeliverable ballots sent to Service members stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.