Bill > S01445

This bill introduces new restrictions on ballot handling, commonly referred to as "ballot harvesting", in New York's election law. Specifically, the bill prohibits individuals from submitting absentee ballot applications or collecting/submitting ballots on behalf of another voter, with several carefully defined exceptions. Individuals may submit an absentee ballot application for another voter only if the voter has signed the application and the submitter is either a family member within three degrees of consanguinity (blood relation) or has obtained a notarized consent from the voter within 30 days of submission. Similarly, ballot collection is restricted to family members, caregivers (with a notarized statement), election officials, postal service employees, and delivery couriers, all acting within the scope of their official duties. Violations of these provisions are classified as criminal offenses, with willful unlawful ballot harvesting treated as a class D felony and other violations considered a class A misdemeanor. The bill aims to prevent potential voter fraud by limiting third-party involvement in ballot handling while still providing reasonable accommodations for voters who need assistance, such as family members or caregivers. The law is set to take effect on the first of November following its passage.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1445