JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — The Alaska Supreme Court has scheduled arguments for Monday in a case that seeks to strike down witness requirements for absentee ballots for the upcoming general election.

The plaintiffs' attorneys have argued the witness requirement is unconstitutional during the COVID-19 pandemic and a bar to voting for those who don’t live with someone at least 18 years old, who can serve as a witness. Attorneys for the state have countered that a change in requirements so close to the Nov. 3 election could create voter confusion and distrust in the Division of Elections.

More than 110,000 absentee ballots have been sent to voters who requested them, with nearly 11,000 already returned, the division says.

Last week, Superior Court Judge Dani Crosby ruled enforcement of the witness requirements during a pandemic “impermissibly burdens the right to vote.” She delayed signing the order to allow the Supreme Court to weigh in, which the state has asked it to do.

The two sides had agreed to a stay pending Supreme Court review, with the understanding the division would make preparations to carry out the order should the state lose the case.

The plaintiffs are Arctic Village Council; League of Women Voters of Alaska; and two individuals.