Bill > S04280

This bill requires boards of elections in cities with over one million residents (which in New York effectively means New York City) to provide voting materials and information in Haitian Creole, a language spoken by many Haitian immigrants. Specifically, the board must translate and provide on its website the same information that is currently available in other non-English languages. Additionally, the board must produce and distribute a citywide booklet that includes a voter registration form in English with Haitian Creole instructions, instructions in Haitian Creole about obtaining an absentee ballot, and a section of general voter information in Haitian Creole, including frequently asked questions. The bill allows the board to optionally include other languages in its materials as well. The provisions of this bill will take effect on the first day of January following its passage into law, which aims to increase access to voting information for Haitian Creole speakers in New York City.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4280