On Tuesday, August 6th, marking the 59th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed several new voting measures into law. The legislation aims to enhance voter protection and accessibility, reinforcing New York’s commitment to fair and inclusive elections.
The new laws will allow pre-registered voters, individuals who will be 18 years old by Election Day, to apply for absentee or early mail voting ballots. Additionally, the legislation ensures that New Yorkers can cure ballot defects within the required timeframes and establishes standard ordering criteria for candidates appearing on a ballot. The measures also bring state election law into compliance with the federal Electoral Count Reform Act and expand poll watcher eligibility to include most New York State attorneys.
Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of these laws in her statement: “Our democracy is rooted in the sacrifices of those willing to fight for that idea greater than any one of us, and with this legislation, we are strengthening our efforts to protect it. Every New Yorker deserves the opportunity to have their voice heard, and these laws bring the ideals of self-governance closer to reality.”
The legislation also includes technical changes related to town elections and clarifies administrative processes for preclearance coverage determinations under the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act of New York. This builds on Hochul’s previous efforts to expand voting rights, such as the 2022 enactment of the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act, which protects against voter dilution, suppression, and intimidation.
Several state senators and assembly members expressed their support for the new measures. State Senator Kevin Parker highlighted the importance of allowing licensed attorneys to serve as poll watchers, ensuring greater transparency and integrity in elections. State Senator Shelley B. Mayer and Assemblyman Steve Otis emphasized the significance of removing obstacles to voting and making the process more accessible for all New Yorkers.
The new laws reflect New York’s proactive stance on safeguarding voting rights amid national debates over voting access and electoral integrity. By reinforcing the state’s electoral framework, these measures aim to ensure that all eligible voters can participate in the democratic process without facing discrimination or undue barriers.
