New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A08969

Introduced
8/13/25  

Caption

Removes the requirement that candidates include their home address on nominating or designating petition forms.

Impact

If enacted, the bill could have significant implications for both the election process and candidate participation. One of the main anticipated impacts is an increase in candidacy, as potential candidates may feel more secure running for office without the fear of their home address becoming public. This could lead to more diverse representation in local and state government, encouraging individuals who may have been deterred due to personal safety concerns to step forward.

Summary

Bill A08969 aims to amend the New York election law by eliminating the requirement for candidates to provide their full home address on nominating or designating petition forms. Instead of listing their complete address, candidates would be permitted to simply include the political subdivision they reside in, such as the city, town, or village, along with the county of residence. This change reflects an effort to enhance privacy for candidates and reduce potential harassment in the current political climate.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, the bill has faced criticism from various quarters. Opponents argue that the removal of the home address requirement may hinder transparency in the electoral process. Critics express concerns that it could complicate voters' ability to verify candidate backgrounds and may lead to perceptions of reduced accountability among elected officials. The balance between candidate privacy and the public's right to know remains a point of contention in discussions surrounding this legislation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY S04138

Relates to enacting the "Esther Salas candidate privacy act" providing the option for candidates for office and petition witnesses not to put their address on designation petitions but instead file such with the county clerk for a fee.

NY S03042

Relates to proceedings with respect to designating and nominating petitions.

NY A00813

Relates to petitions for election to the party position of member of the county committee; provides that candidates shall not be required to provide their zip code if they have clearly stated their town or city on their petition.

NY S00822

Permits electronic correspondence with regard to determinations on objections to designating petitions, independent nominating petitions, certificates of nomination or ballot access documents upon the consent of the objector.

NY A00985

Permits electronic correspondence with regard to determinations on objections to designating petitions, independent nominating petitions, certificates of nomination or ballot access documents upon the consent of the objector.

NY S06740

Provides for requirements for officers, boards and judges making determinations as to the sufficiency of a designating or nominating petition.

NY S00241

Authorizes and directs the state board of elections to create an online petitioning system for designating petitions.

NY A02011

Authorizes and directs the state board of elections to create an online petitioning system for designating petitions.

NY A05292

Relates to the number of signatures needed on certain designating petitions and independent nominations for town council districts.

NY A07454

Provides that a manual recount shall not apply to a political party designating or nominating candidates for the first time, to candidates nominated by party caucus, nor to candidates for judicial offices.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.