Bill > S06995

This bill amends New York's election law to modify early voting and absentee ballot procedures. The key provision is that if a voter submits an absentee ballot application without providing a specific reason for being unable to vote in person, the application will now be automatically processed as an application for an early mail ballot instead. This change effectively removes some of the previous restrictions on absentee voting by creating a more flexible alternative. The bill also makes numerous technical amendments across various sections of election law, including updates to ballot envelope language, voter affirmation statements, and administrative procedures for military and special federal voters. These changes aim to streamline voting processes and make it easier for voters to cast ballots, while maintaining safeguards against voter fraud by requiring voters to affirm the truthfulness of their ballot application. The modifications apply to elections at various levels, including state, school district, and town elections. The bill will take effect one year after becoming law, which provides time for election authorities to update their procedures and inform voters about the changes.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6995