On June 29, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Watson v. RNC that states may continue to count mail ballots after Election Day when state law allows a grace period for ballots postmarked by Election Day.

The case focused on a Mississippi law that allows mail ballots to be counted if they are postmarked by Election Day and received within five business days after the election. The Supreme Court ruled that federal Election Day laws do not prohibit states from using this kind of deadline.

This is good news for voters because it protects the ability of states to keep existing mail ballot rules that give voters time for ballots to arrive after they have been mailed on time.

What this means for Michigan voters

Nothing has changed for voters in Michigan.

Michigan voters can still vote by mail under current state law. This ruling does not create a new mail ballot deadline in Michigan, and it does not change how Michigan voters should return absentee ballots.

Under current Michigan rules, absentee ballots generally must be received by the voter’s local clerk by 8:00 PM on Election Day to be counted. Military and overseas voters have separate rules.

If you choose to vote by mail, request and return your ballot as early as possible.

Why mail voting is important

Mail voting remains an important option for many eligible voters, including people who may face barriers getting to the polls.

That includes eligible voters in jail who are awaiting arraignment, trial, or sentencing, people with disabilities, older voters, students, rural voters, military families, voters without reliable transportation, and people with work, caregiving, or housing barriers.

For many voters, mail voting can make it possible to participate in elections when voting in person is difficult or not available.

What voters can do now

Michigan voters can continue to follow current Michigan voting rules and procedures.

If you plan to vote by mail:

✔️ Request your absentee ballot as early as possible.

✔️ Return your completed ballot as early as possible.

Use mi.gov/vote to find Michigan voting information, track your absentee ballot, and find your local clerk.

Mail voting remains an important way for eligible Michigan voters to cast their ballots. Planning ahead helps make sure your ballot is received on time and counted.