Bill > S05158

This bill amends the New York election law to give the state board of elections more discretionary power in evaluating and approving voting machines and systems. Currently, when a voting machine or system is submitted for examination, the board must determine if it meets specific technical requirements. Under this bill, even if a machine meets those requirements (outlined in section 7-202), the board can now reject or rescind approval of the machine if it determines the machine is not "proper, safe, and/or secure." This provides the board with broader latitude to exclude voting machines based on broader security and operational concerns beyond strict technical compliance. The bill modifies language in two key subdivisions of section 7-201 of the election law, allowing the board to reject or stop using voting machines at its discretion, even if they technically meet existing standards. The changes aim to give election officials more flexibility in ensuring the integrity and reliability of voting equipment. The bill would take effect immediately upon passage.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5158