New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S04274

Introduced
2/3/25  
Refer
2/3/25  
Engrossed
6/12/25  
Refer
6/12/25  

Caption

Requires the board of elections in a city with a population of one million or more to notify by mail state and county party committees and certain elected officials prior to a change of polling place.

Impact

This legislation is poised to enhance the communication process between election boards and voters, particularly in larger urban areas where logistical challenges may be more pronounced. By enforcing a standard notification process, S04274 aims to reduce confusion among voters regarding where to cast their ballots. The broader implication of this bill is its contribution to improving voter turnout and engagement by ensuring that voters are aware of any changes that could affect their voting experience.

Summary

Bill S04274 amends New York's election law to require the board of elections in cities with a population of one million or more to provide timely notifications regarding changes to polling places. Specifically, it mandates that if a polling place is changed after initial designation and notification to registered voters, the board must inform these voters by mail of the new location at least five days before the next election. This is to ensure that voters are adequately informed and can plan accordingly on election day.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding S04274 is the broader debate on election integrity and accessibility. Critics may argue that while the bill enhances notification processes, it does not address other significant challenges voters face, such as access to polling locations, voting technologies, or adequate staffing at polling sites. Furthermore, there may be concerns regarding the implementation and adherence to these notification requirements by the board of elections, particularly given the scale and complexity of elections in populous cities.

Companion Bills

NY A07618

Same As Requires the board of elections in a city with a population of one million or more to notify by mail state and county party committees and certain elected officials prior to a change of polling place.

Previously Filed As

NY S09802

Requires boards of elections to notify state and county party committees and certain elected officials prior to a change of polling place.

NY A10585

Requires boards of elections to notify state and county party committees and certain elected officials prior to a change of polling place.

NY A03747

Relates to the total number of voting machines required at polling sites in cities with populations of one million or more.

NY S04033

Requires the board of elections to provide Russian interpreters at certain polling locations in cities having a population in excess of one million people.

NY A03878

Requires the board of elections to provide Russian interpreters at certain polling locations in cities having a population in excess of one million people.

NY S02890

Requires the board of elections to provide email notifications to voters whenever they change the location of a polling place.

NY A00494

Relates to notifying candidates of designation for certain county committees; requires the board of elections of the city of New York to provide notice to each candidate designated in a petition for election to a party position of a county committee located within the city of New York.

NY S06199

Relates to notifying candidates of designation for certain county committees; requires the board of elections of the city of New York to provide notice to each candidate designated in a petition for election to a party position of a county committee located within the city of New York.

NY A04759

Enacts the "election workers and polling places protection act" to protect poll watchers, election officials, voters and physical property being used as a polling place or by the board of elections.

NY S07725

Enacts the "election workers and polling places protection act" to protect poll watchers, election officials, voters and physical property being used as a polling place or by the board of elections.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.