Democrats Deliver: 10 Pro-Democracy Election Bills Become Law in New York
The 10 bills below, passed by the Democratic majorities in the NY State Assembly and Senate, were signed into law yesterday by Gov. Hochul and will expand voting rights and promote democracy in our state.
Vote By Mail- The New York Early Mail Voter Act establishes New York’s first universal Vote By Mail system. It ensures that every voter can access their ballot, even if they can’t make it to their poll site in person.
Mandatory Poll Worker Training- To ensure proper training for poll workers, the State Board of Elections must now provide a standardized training curriculum instructed every few months.
Golden Day- New Yorkers now have one extra day, known as Golden Day, to register to vote during the first day of the early voting period.
Student Registration and Pre-Registration- Requires local Boards of Education and non-public schools to provide opportunities to register to vote and pre-register to vote.
Registration in Jails- When someone convicted of a felony is about to be released, they’ll now be informed that their voting rights will be restored and be given a voter registration form.
Polling Location Change Deadline- Prohibits changes made in polling site locations for early voting after 48 hours until early voting begins.
Taped Absentee Ballots- Considers ballot envelopes that have been taped to be valid as long as they do not show evidence of tampering.
Presidential Primary Timing- Sets April 2nd as the date for the 2024 presidential primaries.
No Faithless Electors- Requires electors to vote for the presidential and vice presidential candidates who were nominated by the political party who nominated the elector.
No Forum Shopping- Prevents forum shopping when pursuing constitutional challenges to the election law.
Bill nos. here.