Many states changed their election laws in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and following the 2020 election. With the 2022 elections coming up in November, the process of registering to vote and casting a ballot can vary widely from state to state.
Certain rules regarding elections are set by the Constitution, including the date of the general election, restrictions on who has the right to vote, and the prohibition of poll taxes.[1] Congress can also pass laws to protect the right to vote including protections against voter discrimination and to ensure overseas military personnel and other American citizens living abroad can vote.
However, most election rules are set by state and county governments. Some are written in state constitutions and others are individual laws passed by the legislature. Counties typically administer elections and in some states can set rules for how and when people can vote. Election laws can also be passed by ballot initiative or referendum[2].
