Clarifying the signature verification requirements for advance voting ballot envelopes and providing for the repeal of advance voting statutes, except where advance voting is required by federal law, if a state or federal court issues a final order or judgment which is not subject to appeal invalidating such signature verification requirements.

HB 2490 would automatically end Kansas's mail-in voting program if a court invalidates the state's signature verification rules for mail ballots. Specifically, if a final court order (no longer appealable) strikes down K.S.A. 25-1124(h), the secretary of state must publish a notice, and all advance voting by mail becomes void except where federal law (like the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act) requires it. The bill repeals 20+ existing election statutes related to mail voting, including signature verification requirements and ballot envelope rules. It directly affects Kansas voters who currently use mail-in ballots, eliminating that option unless federal law mandates it. The change would take effect upon court action or July 1, 2026, whichever comes first.