New York Assembly Bill A01091

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/25
• Refer: 1/8/25
• Refer: 1/7/26

Caption

Provides that recounts of ballots conducted by the board of elections or a bipartisan committee appointed by the board can be either done manually or via the use of any automated tool authorized for such use by the board of elections, which is independent from the voting system it is being used to recount, of all ballots for a particular contest where the margin of victory is less than or equal to 0.5% but greater than 0.25%; allows for losing candidates to deny a recount before any recount is conducted.

Summary

Bill A01091 amends the election law to establish new parameters for conducting recounts of ballots in New York. It specifies that a full manual recount must be conducted by the board of elections or a bipartisan committee when the margin of victory is ten votes or less, or when the margin is 0.25% or less. Additionally, it allows for recounts in contests with one million or more ballots cast if the margin of victory is less than 5,000 votes. The bill also introduces the option for recounts to be performed using automated tools that are independent of the voting system used in the original election.

Impact

The bill will impact the election process in New York by changing the thresholds for when a recount is mandated, potentially increasing the frequency of manual recounts in close elections. It also clarifies the process for conducting recounts, including the use of automated tools, which may streamline the recount process and ensure greater accuracy. Furthermore, it allows candidates who are losing by the specified margins to reject a recount, which could influence candidates' strategies in close races.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill A01091 appears to be cautiously supportive among proponents of election integrity, who argue that clearer recount procedures will enhance public confidence in election outcomes. However, there are concerns from some legislators regarding the implications of allowing candidates to reject recounts, which may lead to disputes over election results and diminish transparency.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the provision that allows losing candidates to deny a recount, which some argue could undermine the integrity of the electoral process. Critics express concern that this could discourage thorough examination of close races, while supporters believe it empowers candidates to make strategic decisions about their campaigns. The balance between ensuring election integrity and respecting candidates' autonomy is a key debate point.