Assemblyman Richard L. Brodsky, Chairman of the Assembly Committee on Corporations, Authorities, and Commissions, is proud to announce the passage of a new law that will allow for certain seventeen year old high school students to serve as election inspectors, which will expand the number of students who can gain the invaluable experience of partaking in the electoral process.

This bill, signed into law by Governor Paterson this week, provides the authority for enrolled students at least 17 years of age, upon consent from their school district and parents (or legal guardians), to serve as election inspectors and poll clerks during elections. Assemblyman Brodsky has been pushing for the passage of this legislation since 2002.

“This bill serves two very critical purposes,” said Brodsky (D-Westchester). “First, this will expand the pool of students engaged in the democratic process. Second, it will help New Yorkers combat the often critical shortage of election workers that often exists in many parts of the state. I applaud the Governor for taking swift action on this bill after its passage. We are taking another step to ensure that the election process, which is a cornerstone of American democracy, becomes even more inclusive and efficient.”

Senator Martin Malavé Dilan (D-Williamsburg), Chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee member of the Senate Standing Committee on Elections stated, “In past elections there have been severe shortages of personnel to work our polls. By allowing more young people to help in our elections, we provide them with both a hands-on experience of democracy in action and address the lack of elections inspectors and poll workers.”