Bill > A02457

This bill amends the New York State election law to require boards of elections in cities with populations over one million people to provide Russian interpreters at polling locations within election districts where at least five percent of the population's first language is Russian. Currently, the law allows non-English speaking voters to be assisted by a relative who can interpret, and this bill expands language assistance by mandating dedicated Russian interpreters in specific urban areas. The bill aims to improve voter accessibility and ensure that Russian-speaking residents can more easily participate in the electoral process by having professional interpreters available at polling sites. The language changes modify existing text to be more gender-neutral (replacing "he" with "the applicant") and add specific requirements for Russian language interpretation in large cities with significant Russian-speaking populations. The bill will take effect immediately and apply to all elections conducted after its effective date.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2457