New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S05195

Introduced
2/19/25  
Refer
2/19/25  
Refer
3/12/25  
Refer
1/7/26  

Caption

Relates to the composition of boards of elections; provides that such boards shall have other qualifications for performing their duties as the legislature may direct.

Summary

Bill S05195 proposes an amendment to section 8 of article 2 of the New York State Constitution regarding the composition of boards of elections. The amendment aims to ensure that all laws related to the qualification of voters, ballot distribution, and vote counting provide for equal representation of the two political parties that received the highest and second highest number of votes in the preceding general election. Furthermore, it allows the legislature to determine the appointment or election process for these boards and officers, as well as any additional qualifications necessary for their duties.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would modify the existing framework governing boards of elections in New York State, mandating equal representation from the two leading political parties. This change could lead to a more bipartisan approach in the administration of elections, potentially affecting how boards are structured and how they operate. The bill also allows the legislature to set further qualifications for board members, which could lead to changes in the selection criteria and processes used in future elections.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S05195 appears to be cautiously optimistic, as it seeks to enhance the integrity and fairness of the electoral process by promoting bipartisanship in election administration. However, there may be concerns regarding the implications of legislative control over qualifications and appointments, which could lead to debates about the potential for political influence in the election process.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the extent of legislative authority over the qualifications and appointment processes for election boards. Critics may argue that this could lead to partisan manipulation, while supporters may contend that it is necessary for ensuring fair representation. The balance between maintaining independence in election oversight and ensuring bipartisan representation will likely be a focal point of discussion.

Companion Bills

NY A00400

Same As Relates to the composition of boards of elections; provides that such boards shall have other qualifications for performing their duties as the legislature may direct.

Previously Filed As

NY S00667

Relates to the composition of boards of elections; provides that such boards shall have other qualifications for performing their duties as the legislature may direct.

NY A00755

Relates to the composition of boards of elections; provides that such boards shall have other qualifications for performing their duties as the legislature may direct.

NY A00400

Relates to the composition of boards of elections; provides that such boards shall have other qualifications for performing their duties as the legislature may direct.

NY HB1952

Relating to the composition of county appraisal district boards of directors.

NY HB1724

To Amend The Law Concerning Local School Boards Of Directors And School Board Elections; And To Amend The Date On Which An Election Of A School District Board Of Directors Is Held.

NY H8529

Amends the compositions of the Rhode Island life science hub board of directors and amends the I-195 redevelopment district commission and provides additional amendments to the powers and duties of the commission.

NY H5155

Provides that architects and other authorized disaster response workers, in the course of performing their duties, be entitled to all rights in like manner as state employees.

NY HB621

Local Boards of Elections - Board Counsel - Qualifications

NY SB443

Local Boards of Elections - Board Counsel - Qualifications

NY HB2153

Specifying when boards of directors for irrigation districts of 35,000 or more acres may conduct board member elections by mail ballot and establishing the terms for such members.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.