Bill > S05738

This bill amends the New York State election law to require the board of elections to provide Russian language interpreters at polling locations in cities with over one million people, specifically in election districts where at least five percent of the county's population's first language is Russian. Currently, the law allows non-English speaking voters to be assisted by a relative who can interpret for them during voter registration, and this bill expands language support by mandating professional Russian interpreters in areas with significant Russian-speaking populations. The bill aims to improve electoral accessibility for Russian-speaking voters in large cities, likely New York City, by ensuring they can more easily understand voting procedures and cast their ballots. The provisions will take effect immediately and apply to all elections conducted after the bill's enactment, helping to address potential language barriers that might prevent full participation in the democratic process.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5738