Bill > S01027

This bill relates to the canvassing of absentee, military, and special ballots, as well as ballots cast in affidavit envelopes. Key provisions include: - Establishes a central board of canvassers to review ballot envelopes and determine their validity within a set timeframe. Provides procedures for this review process, including identifying curable defects and allowing voters to cure those defects. - Allows for the scanning and counting of valid absentee, military, and special ballots prior to election day, with safeguards to prevent the release of results before the polls close. Outlines procedures for the casting and canvassing of these ballots. - Requires a post-election review and canvassing of affidavit ballots within a set timeframe, with specific criteria for determining the validity of these ballots. - Authorizes poll watchers to observe the review of ballot envelopes and gives candidates, parties, and independent bodies the ability to object to determinations of ballot invalidity. - Directs the State Board of Elections to promulgate rules and regulations to ensure an efficient and fair review process that respects voter privacy and secures the ballot counting process. The bill aims to establish clear, uniform procedures for the handling and counting of absentee, military, special, and affidavit ballots in order to ensure the integrity and accuracy of election results.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2021/S1027