Lavine’s Electoral Reform Bills Become Law
Albany, NY – Late Monday evening, members of the State Assembly voted in favor of comprehensive legislation proposed by Election Law Committee Chair Charles Lavine to reform New York’s antiquated electoral process, expanding New Yorkers’ access to the polls and bringing more transparency to campaign finance.
“For us, voting is a right, not merely a privilege,” said Lavine. “With grave concern over our rights, Americans voted in record numbers in November, making all the more evident the need to pass these bills to protect voting rights.”
Included in the package is legislation to combine federal non-presidential and state primaries, as well as a 9 day early voting period prior to any primary, special or general election. In addition, the Legislature voted in support of legislation to allow 16 and 17 year olds to pre-register to vote, a move that is meant to encourage civic engagement in young people.
“Our democratic process is dependent on our ability to ensure New York residents are able to exercise their fundamental right to vote with ease,” Lavine added. “These bills will ensure accessibility and encourage participation in our electoral system, while brining greater transparency to our campaign finance laws. Now, more than ever, we need to stand up and protect our democratic process.”