Bill > S00699

This bill makes significant changes to the New York City Board of Elections, focusing on its structure, management, and operations. It mandates that the terms of current Board of Elections commissioners will expire, with a new appointment process requiring each major political party to recommend candidates to the city council within 60 days. The number of commissioners will be reduced from ten to two, and they cannot be from the same county or political party. A new executive director position is established, to be appointed through a collaborative process involving the mayor, city council speaker, and public advocate, with a four-year term and qualifications to be determined by the state Board of Elections. The bill also introduces more stringent reporting and accountability measures, including tracking key voting data, requiring an annual performance report, and establishing policies for employee hiring, training, and evaluation. Additionally, the bill clarifies the board's powers, emphasizing that commissioners will have limited executive authority, with most operational duties delegated to the executive director. The changes are designed to improve the transparency, efficiency, and political balance of the New York City Board of Elections, with most provisions set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S699