State allows ballot drop boxes at local election offices during pandemic

Officials say voters can use the drop boxes to turn in their ballots, while continuing to follow CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Election officials have mailed absentee ballot request forms to nearly 7 million registered voters. Officials encourage people to vote by mail if possible.

However, drop boxes could be a way for voters to return ballots in person without needing a stamp.

Currently, Houston County uses drop boxes.

“We do have a locked drop box underneath the table that you can place your information in,” said Debra Presswood, the election supervisor for Houston County Board of Elections. “We also have a sign on the table to let you know that if you have any problems or questions, to give us a call and we will come outside and have a conversation with you.”

The state is allowing each county to decide if they want to have ballot drop boxes. Officials also say it could be up to the counties to pay for them.