(a) A qualified voter is eligible to vote a late ballot as provided by this chapter if:
(1) the voter will be absent from the county of residence on election day because of the death of a person related to the voter within the second degree by consanguinity or affinity, as determined under Chapter 573, Government Code; and
(2) the death occurs on or after the day before the last day of the period for early voting by personal appearance.
(b) In this chapter, "late ballot" means a ballot voted under this chapter.