Bill > S07281

This bill repeals Section 17-140 of the New York election law, which previously criminalized providing items of nominal value to encourage voter attendance at polling places. By removing this provision, the bill eliminates legal restrictions on small acts of encouragement or support that might have previously been considered an attempt to improperly influence voter turnout. The repeal suggests a recognition that minor gestures or tokens intended to help voters participate in the electoral process should not be treated as a criminal offense. The bill is straightforward, with Section 1 specifically repealing the existing law and Section 2 stating that the act will take effect immediately upon passage. This change potentially removes a barrier that could have discouraged voter engagement or community efforts to increase electoral participation.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7281