Colorado Mulls Earlier Mail Ballot Dispatch

State lawmakers consider law change to send ballots a month before elections.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Colorado lawmakers are considering a proposal to change state law and send mail-in ballots to voters one month before an election, rather than the current 22-day window. The goal is to give voters more time to receive, fill out, and return their ballots.

Why it matters

This potential change comes as states across the country continue to grapple with balancing voter access and election security. Proponents argue that an earlier ballot distribution would increase voter participation, while critics raise concerns about ballot tampering and election integrity.

The details

The proposed law change would shift Colorado's mail ballot distribution timeline from 22 days before an election to 30 days. Supporters say this would give voters more time to receive, research candidates and issues, and return their ballots. However, some election officials worry the extended period could increase the risk of lost, stolen, or tampered ballots.

  • The current Colorado law requires mail ballots to be sent to voters 22 days before an election.

The players

Colorado State Legislature

The state's legislative body that is considering changing the law to send mail ballots earlier.

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What’s next

The Colorado State Legislature is expected to hold hearings and debates on the proposed law change in the coming months, with a potential vote by the end of the year.

The takeaway

This debate in Colorado highlights the ongoing tensions between expanding voter access and maintaining election security, an issue that will likely continue to be a focus for state legislatures across the country.