In the presidential election 1 year ago, there were free-standing ballot drop boxes, and they were controversial. This year, as officials in many states expand use of the boxes amid a pandemic, they have become another flashpoint in the controversy over voting access.

Supporters of the expanded use of drop boxes say they make voting easier for people who are afraid to vote in person and fear their absentee ballots won’t be tallied if they send them through the mail. Opponents say they are worried about ballot security, despite little evidence that drop boxes are any less secure than other voting methods until recently,It’s led to court cases, political back-and-forth and uncertainty for local election officials and voters.