Bill > S05570

This bill updates New York's election law to expand the methods by which voters can submit absentee ballot applications electronically. Currently, voters can submit applications by mail or in person, but the bill now authorizes three additional electronic submission methods: (1) fax transmission to a designated phone number, (2) email attachment to a designated email address, and (3) through an online electronic filing system established by the state board of elections. The bill clarifies that these electronic submissions will be considered original applications and do not require subsequent paper submissions. It also applies these electronic submission provisions to military voters and special federal voters, ensuring they can submit their ballot applications through the same electronic channels. The electronic applications will be considered received at the time they are submitted to the board of elections, with a provision that submissions after business hours will be deemed received on the next business day. The bill aims to make absentee voting more convenient and accessible by providing multiple electronic submission options. The changes will take effect on the first day of January following the bill's passage into law.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5570