On the 59th anniversary of the signing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, Governor Kathy Hochul on Tuesday signed legislation to strengthen voting protections and make it easier for voters to cast their ballots. The legislation includes measures that strengthen access to the ballot – building on the historic John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act of New York to protect against voter discrimination and disenfranchisement and seeking to enfranchise new voters and standardize important elements of the electoral process.
“Our democracy is rooted in the sacrifices of those willing to fight for that idea greater than any one of us, and with this legislation, we are strengthening our efforts to protect it,” Governor Hochul said. “Every New Yorker deserves the opportunity to have their voice heard, and these laws bring the ideals of self-governance closer to reality.”
The bills signed into law on Tuesday:
Legislation S.6735A/A.3250A will allow pre-registered voters, individuals who will be 18 years old by Election Day, to apply for an absentee or early mail voting ballot.
Legislation S.9837/A.10541 will ensure New Yorkers are able to cure ballot defects within the required timeframes.
Legislation S.5943/A.725 creates a standard ordering criteria for candidates appearing on a ballot.
Legislation S.8464/A.9409 brings state election law into compliance with the requirements set under the federal Electoral Count Reform Act.
Legislation S.6130A/A.530A expands poll watcher eligibility to include most New York State attorneys.
Legislation S.9763/A.9991 makes technical changes related to town elections.
Legislation S.9687/A.10357 clarifies administrative processes for preclearance coverage determinations under the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act of New York.
State Senator Rachel May said, “This bill continues our work to make voting simple and easy by allowing pre-registered 17-year-olds who will be 18 by Election Day to vote absentee or early by mail. It’s an important step forward in expanding voting rights for New Yorkers, and it will make it easier for everyone to participate in the democratic process. Thank you to Governor Hochul for signing my bill and supporting more inclusive and accessible elections.”
