Bill > S05575

This bill establishes a new criminal offense called "fraud relating to voter registration forms" in New York state law. Specifically, the bill makes it illegal for any person or organization to distribute voter registration forms where party affiliation boxes have been pre-marked by someone other than the voter themselves. If convicted, individuals or organizations can be fined $1,000 for each offense and charged with a class B misdemeanor. The bill defines "person" broadly to include not just individuals, but also political parties, corporations, government agencies, and other organizations. The goal appears to be preventing potential manipulation of voter registration by ensuring that party affiliation choices are made solely by the individual registering to vote, without external interference or pre-selection. The law would apply to voter registration forms distributed through any means, including mail and electronic methods. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5575