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Panel approves bill to extend receipt deadline for mailed absentee ballots to 5 p.m.

Senate of Virginia Privileges and Elections Committee · January 21, 2026

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Summary

The committee voted 9–5 to report SB58, which moves the deadline for receiving absentee-by-mail ballots from noon on the third day after an election to 5 p.m., citing slower USPS delivery and support from voting-rights groups.

Senate Bill 58, which would change the statutory deadline for receipt of absentee-by-mail ballots from noon on the third day after an election to 5 p.m., was reported out of the Privileges and Elections Committee on a 9–5 vote.

Senator Favola, the sponsor, said the change responds to slower U.S. Postal Service delivery times and would ensure ballots mailed on time are counted. The League of Women Voters of Virginia and the Fair Election Center testified in favor; Joan Port said the change would help ensure ballots are counted as intended, and Michelle Kinter Cohen of the Fair Election Center said the 5 p.m. deadline better matches voters’ expectations about mail and office hours.

A small number of online participants registered opposition but did not produce extended in‑room testimony. After committee discussion, Senator Deeds moved the report; recorded tally was 9 yeas and 5 nays and the bill was reported to the next stage.