Bill > S00799

This bill modifies the existing election law to allow a board of elections employee to remain employed while being a candidate for an office overseen by that board, but only with prior authorization from a majority vote of the board of elections commissioners. The state board of elections will be required to establish rules and regulations governing such situations, including restrictions that prevent the employee from working on matters directly related to the election in their jurisdiction. The bill specifies that an employee becomes a candidate upon filing a nominating petition or accepting a nomination, and may remain on "leave without pay" status until their candidacy ends or election results are certified. In cases where no primary elections exist for the office being sought, the candidate may remain on the board's payroll for up to 90 days before a general election. Importantly, these provisions do not apply to unpaid party positions, and the bill is designed to take effect simultaneously with another related election law amendment concerning conflicts of interest among board of elections employees.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S799