Bill > A07858

This bill amends the election law to establish a new method for ordering candidate names on primary election ballots specifically in New York City. The bill introduces a detailed system for ballot name placement that begins by listing candidates in alphabetical order by surname in the first (lowest-numbered) election district, with additional rules for handling identical surnames by using first names. The key innovation is a rotation mechanism where candidate names are systematically moved to different positions across election districts, ensuring that each candidate appears first, last, and in intermediate positions an approximately equal number of times. The bill also provides specific provisions for handling groups of candidates, such as delegate and alternate delegate slates, and includes rules for situations like court-ordered ballot changes. Additionally, the bill mandates that candidate names for each office or position appear immediately adjacent to each other on voting machines, with no blank spaces separating candidates or offices. The legislation is designed to create a more equitable ballot positioning system that reduces potential voter bias that might result from a fixed candidate order. The bill will take effect 30 days after becoming law and will apply to elections occurring on or after that date.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7858