Dropbox Access Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Scanlon, Mary Gay [D-PA-5]
- Committees
- Committee on House Administration (primary)
- Last action
- Oct 1, 2026
Bottom line
This bill establishes federal requirements for states to provide and manage secured absentee ballot drop boxes, aiming to enhance voter access and ballot security.
What it actually does
H.R. 10699, the "Dropbox Access Act," amends the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to mandate that each county in every state provide secured, clearly labeled drop boxes for voted absentee ballots in federal elections. These drop boxes must be available for at least 45 days before an election until polls close, be accessible to individuals with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency, and be located based on specific criteria including voter access, public transportation, and consideration for rural and Tribal lands.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill standardizes and expands a secure, convenient method for voters to return absentee ballots, increasing voter participation and ensuring equitable access, especially for those in rural areas, on Tribal lands, or with disabilities. They contend it adds a layer of security by providing a monitored alternative to mail and reduces the risk of postal delays.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that mandating drop boxes imposes an unfunded federal mandate on states, potentially straining local election budgets and operational capacity. Concerns could also be raised about the security protocols for "at any time during the period" availability, and the potential for increased costs without federal funding, which could lead to diversion of resources from other critical election functions.
The bill is short and clearly written, making it accessible for a quick and informed evaluation by any interested reader.
Section 2(a), new Section 305(a) of HAVA
Mandate for Secured Absentee Ballot Drop Boxes
This provision requires every county in each state to provide in-person, secured, and clearly labeled drop boxes for voters to return their absentee ballots in federal elections. This establishes a federal standard for the availability of a specific method of ballot return across the country.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this mandate ensures a consistent, secure, and convenient ballot return method, increasing voter participation and trust in the election process by providing a physical, monitored alternative to mail.
Critics contend
Critics may contend that this is an unfunded federal mandate that infringes on state autonomy in election administration and could impose significant financial and logistical burdens on local jurisdictions without federal support.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire for standardized voter access and security against concerns about federal overreach and the financial implications for state and local governments.
Section 2(a), new Section 305(b) of HAVA
Minimum Availability Period for Drop Boxes
This provision specifies that the secured drop boxes must be available for use for a minimum period beginning 45 days before the date of a federal election and ending when the polls close on election day in the relevant county. This ensures an extended window for ballot return.
Section 2(a), new Section 305(c) of HAVA
Accessibility Requirements for Drop Boxes
This provision mandates that all drop boxes provided under the Act must be accessible to individuals with disabilities, as determined in consultation with state protection and advocacy systems and meeting criteria established by the Attorney General. It also requires accessibility for individuals with limited English proficiency, ensuring equitable access for diverse voter populations.
Section 2(a), new Section 305(d) of HAVA
Formula for Number of Drop Boxes
This provision establishes a formula for determining the minimum number of drop boxes required in each county. For counties with 20,000 or more registered voters, the number of drop boxes must be at least one for every 20,000 registered voters (rounded to the nearest whole number). Smaller counties must have at least one drop box. The number of registered voters is determined 90 days before the election.
Section 2(a), new Section 305(e) of HAVA
Criteria for Drop Box Location
This provision outlines specific criteria for states to determine the location of drop boxes. These criteria include ensuring non-discriminatory availability, accessibility for voters with disabilities, accessibility by public transportation to the greatest extent possible, availability during all hours of the day, and sufficient availability in all communities, including rural areas and Tribal lands.
Section 2(a), new Section 305(f) of HAVA
Rules for Drop Boxes on Tribal Lands
This provision requires state and local election officials to consult with Tribal leaders when determining the number and location of drop boxes on Tribal lands. It specifies that officials must consider factors unique to Tribal communities, such as direct-to-door mail delivery, travel distances, available transportation, road conditions, and public transportation availability.
The bill requires drop boxes to be accessible to individuals with disabilities, as determined in consultation with 'protection and advocacy systems' (defined by reference to 42 U.S.C. 15002) and meeting criteria established by the Attorney General.
Section 2(a), new Section 305(c)(1)(A) and (2) of HAVA
Why it matters:Cross-referencing existing definitions is standard legislative practice for brevity. Delegating specific criteria to an agency is also common for technical standards, but it means the precise requirements are not fixed in the bill itself.
Case for: Supporters would argue that using existing definitions and allowing the Attorney General to set specific criteria ensures that accessibility standards are consistent with broader disability rights law and can be updated as best practices evolve, without requiring new legislation.
Case against: Critics might argue that delegating such important criteria to the Attorney General reduces transparency and legislative oversight, potentially allowing for standards that are either too lax or too burdensome without direct congressional approval.
Estimated impact: This provision significantly impacts the practical implementation and cost of making drop boxes accessible, affecting millions of voters with disabilities and requiring specific expertise from state election officials.