Amends early voting provisions; provides that an application for an absentee ballot that does not provide a reason that the applicant is entitled to such a ballot shall be processed as an application for an early mail ballot.
Impact
The adjustments made by A08310 could have considerable implications for New York's voting infrastructure. By facilitating easier access to early mail ballots, it seeks to streamline the electoral process and respond to growing demands for more flexible voting options. The change is particularly relevant in light of recent trends emphasizing remote voting capabilities, which have gained prominence in various elections, especially during the pandemic.
Summary
Bill A08310 seeks to amend various sections of New York's Election Law, Education Law, and Town Law specifically regarding voting by mail. A notable revision includes provisions that require an application for an absentee ballot without a stated reason to be treated as an application for an early mail ballot. This legislative change aims to simplify the voting process by allowing broader access to mail-in voting, potentially increasing voter participation.
Contention
Despite its intentions, the bill may meet resistance regarding concerns about election integrity and security. Critics argue that processing absentee ballot applications as early mail ballot applications without requiring a reason could lead to potential fraud or misuse. There may also be discussions about how these changes could affect the verification processes at local election boards and the overall management of ballots sent through the mail.
Same As
Amends early voting provisions; provides that an application for an absentee ballot that does not provide a reason that the applicant is entitled to such a ballot shall be processed as an application for an early mail ballot.
Requires the board of elections to send an absentee ballot application to all voters who filed an absentee ballot application for the prior election; provides for a permanent absentee ballot application list.
Relates to the time period during which absentee ballots shall be mailed or delivered after an application for such ballot is received by the board of elections.
Relates to the time period during which absentee ballots shall be mailed or delivered after an application for such ballot is received by the board of elections.
Establishes early mail voting; authorizes registered voters to obtain early mail voting ballots through application to the board of elections; requires the state board of elections to establish and maintain an electronic early mail ballot application transmittal system through which voters may apply for an early mail ballot online.
Establishes early mail voting; authorizes registered voters to obtain early mail voting ballots through application to the board of elections; requires the state board of elections to establish and maintain an electronic early mail ballot application transmittal system through which voters may apply for an early mail ballot online.
Provides that an application for a military ballot from a military voter shall be received at least fifteen days before an election in order to entitle the applicant to vote at such election.