Removes the preclearance requirement from certain counties regarding covered policies regarding elections.
Impact
If passed, A09235 would significantly alter the landscape of election law in New York by making it easier for counties previously categorized as 'covered' to implement new election policies without the need for advance approval. This could have broader implications for voting rights protections, especially in areas with historical issues related to voter discrimination or civil rights violations. Supporters of the bill argue that it streamlines the election process and encourages local governance, while critics warn that such changes could undermine the progress made in safeguarding against discriminatory practices in voting.
Summary
A09235 is a bill introduced in the New York Assembly that aims to amend election laws by removing the preclearance requirement that currently applies to certain counties in regards to election-related policies. The bill specifically touches on the conditions under which a political subdivision is classified as a 'covered entity' that would be subject to preclearance. The changes proposed in this bill seek to redefine the criteria for preclearance, thereby loosening some of the restrictions on these subdivisions when it comes to enacting election laws and policies.
Contention
The discussion surrounding A09235 is expected to be contentious, with significant debate over the implications of removing preclearance requirements. Proponents of the bill may highlight the burdensome nature of preclearance for local election officials, asserting that it unnecessarily complicates the administration of elections. Conversely, opponents are likely to express concerns that this change could open the door to potential voter suppression tactics and diminish protections for those in vulnerable communities, particularly minority groups who may have previously benefitted from these safeguards.
Removes certain provisions regarding public hearing and notice requirements prior to issuing safety and health rules, and notice requirements after issuing safety and health rules.
Requires covered entities report to the department of health regarding certain 340B drug discounts and what percentage of patients benefit from such discounts.
Requires covered entities report to the department of health regarding certain 340B drug discounts and what percentage of patients benefit from such discounts.
Permits boards of elections to opt to mail communications regarding primary elections to only those voters eligible to vote in such primary elections; excludes such option for the board of elections of the city of New York.
Relates to requirements regarding employers including opioid antagonists where first aid kits are required by federal law; amends the effectiveness thereof.
Payment rates established for certain substance use disorder treatment services, and vendor eligibility recodified for payments from the behavioral health fund.
Cover Outstanding Vulnerable Expansion-eligible Residents Now Act or the COVER Now Act This bill establishes a demonstration program to allow local governments to provide health benefits to the Medicaid expansion population in states that have not expanded Medicaid. Under the program, local governments may provide coverage for individuals who are newly eligible for Medicaid under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (i.e., the Medicaid expansion population) for a maximum of 10 years, or until their respective states expand Medicaid. The bill provides a 100% federal matching rate for the first three years of program participation. The bill prohibits states from taking certain actions against participating localities, such as withholding funding, increasing taxes, or restricting provider participation. States that violate these requirements are subject to certain funding penalties.