Bill > A06226

This bill improves transparency and voter accessibility in New York's election process through several key provisions. The bill requires boards of elections to be subject to open meetings laws, ensuring that their decision-making processes are more transparent to the public. It mandates that boards of elections provide more comprehensive and timely information about elections, including publishing detailed notices at least 30 days prior to primary and general elections with information such as election dates, polling place locations, registration deadlines, and sample ballots. The bill also expands voter options by allowing voters to cast ballots at any polling place within their county and requires boards of elections to ensure sufficient ballots are available at each location. Additionally, the legislation increases transparency during vote counting by requiring public posting of election results, including detailed breakdowns by ballot type, and mandating that results be made available in spreadsheet format. The bill also introduces new provisions for election watchers, allowing the Committee on Open Government to appoint additional non-partisan watchers to observe election processes. Furthermore, it requires boards of elections to hold public hearings within two weeks after transmitting certified election statements, giving voters an opportunity to provide feedback on the election process. These changes aim to make New York's election system more open, accessible, and accountable to voters.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6226