New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S01844

Introduced
1/14/25  

Caption

Allows voters to take photographs of themselves and their ballot, or absentee ballot, while in a privacy booth, and to share and disseminate such photographs on social media.

Summary

Bill S01844 amends the New York election law to allow voters to take photographs of themselves and their ballots while in a privacy booth. This includes the ability to share these photographs on social media platforms. The bill aims to enhance voter engagement and transparency in the electoral process by enabling voters to document their participation in elections.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would modify existing election laws, specifically Section 8-300 and Section 17-130 of the election law. It would create a new legal allowance for voters to photograph their ballots, which could potentially influence how voters perceive their voting experience and increase social media engagement related to elections. Additionally, it introduces a misdemeanor charge for anyone who interferes with a voter's ability to take such photographs, thereby providing a layer of protection for voters.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill S01844 appears to be supportive among advocates of voter engagement and transparency. However, there may be concerns about the implications of sharing ballot images on social media, particularly regarding privacy and the potential for misuse.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from concerns about the security and integrity of the voting process. Critics may argue that allowing photographs of ballots could lead to coercion or the identification of how individuals voted, undermining the anonymity of the ballot. Supporters, on the other hand, emphasize the importance of voter empowerment and the ability to share one's civic participation.

Companion Bills

NY A01542

Same As Allows voters to take photographs of themselves and their ballot, or absentee ballot, while in a privacy booth, and to share and disseminate such photographs on social media.

Previously Filed As

NY S09801

Allows voters to take photographs of themselves and their ballot, or absentee ballot, while in a privacy booth, and to share and disseminate such photographs on social media.

NY A00318

Allows voters to take photographs of themselves and their ballot, or absentee ballot, while in a privacy booth, and to share and disseminate such photographs on social media.

NY S00661

Allows voters to take photographs of themselves and their ballot, or absentee ballot, while in a privacy booth, and to share and disseminate such photographs on social media.

NY A01542

Allows voters to take photographs of themselves and their ballot, or absentee ballot, while in a privacy booth, and to share and disseminate such photographs on social media.

NY A287

Permits voter to take photograph of own voted ballot and share it on Internet-based social media.

NY S2900

Permits voter to take photograph of own voted ballot and share it on Internet-based social media.

NY HB1894

ELEC CD-PHOTOGRAPHING BALLOTS

NY HB1652

Elections; voter identification containing photograph required; who may register up to and including the day of the election; absentee ballot application requirements; absentee voting in person availability; return of absentee ballots.

NY SB0302

Absentee ballots.

NY SB218

Relative to absentee ballots.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.