Definition and meaning of Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA): The Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act is a federal law that grants the right to vote in federal elections to certain U.S. citizens who are absent from their polling place due to their military service, residence outside of the United States, or other qualifying reasons. The law was enacted in 1986. The act mandates that states provide these citizens with an absentee ballot and the opportunity to vote in federal elections. It also ensures that overseas citizens are able to cast their ballot in a timely manner and that their vote is counted in a fair and accurate manner. This important law helps protect the democratic rights of those who are in service of their country or living abroad and are unable to access the polls on election day. UOCAVA is an essential tool in promoting fair and independent elections. Those living abroad may bring a different perspective to the table and can help to provide a much-needed counterbalance to the partisan rancor that pervades the American political landscape. Ultimately, UOCAVA is a powerful weapon in the fight for fair representation and independent politics.