Provides that the text to be used in a proposed amendment, proposition or question to be submitted to the people for approval shall be in the legislation proposing such amendment, proposition or question and shall not be altered without approval by the legislature.
Summary
Bill S07219 amends the New York election law to establish specific guidelines for the language used in proposed amendments, propositions, or questions submitted to voters for approval. It mandates that such proposals include a descriptive title of up to fifteen words, a summary of the proposal in plain language of up to thirty words, and a clear statement of what a YES or NO vote means, also limited to thirty words. The intent is to ensure that voters can easily understand the implications of their choices without being bogged down by legal jargon.
Additionally, the bill repeals certain provisions of the election law related to the submission of these proposals, streamlining the process and enhancing clarity. The text of the proposed amendment or proposition must be included in the legislation that proposes it, and any alterations to this text must receive legislative approval. This aims to maintain the integrity of the information presented to voters and prevent last-minute changes that could confuse the electorate.
The impact of this bill on state laws is significant as it seeks to improve voter comprehension and engagement in the electoral process. By simplifying the language and ensuring that voters are presented with straightforward information, the bill could potentially increase voter turnout and participation in referendums. It also reinforces the legislative body's role in overseeing the content of ballot measures, thereby enhancing accountability.
The sentiment surrounding Bill S07219 appears to be generally positive, with discussions highlighting the importance of clear communication in the democratic process. However, there may be concerns regarding the balance between legislative oversight and the autonomy of the ballot measure process.
Notable points of contention include the potential for legislative bias in the approval of language changes, which some may argue could limit the ability of citizens to propose amendments freely. Critics may express concerns that requiring legislative approval for alterations could slow down the process of ballot measure creation and reduce responsiveness to public needs.
Impact
The bill modifies existing election laws to ensure that the language used in proposed amendments and propositions is clear and understandable for voters. It repeals previous provisions that may have allowed for more complex legal language, thereby aiming to enhance voter comprehension and engagement. This change could lead to a more informed electorate and potentially higher participation rates in elections where such propositions are presented.
Sentiment
The general sentiment around Bill S07219 is positive, with support for its goal of improving voter understanding of ballot measures. Discussions emphasize the importance of clear communication in elections, although there are concerns about the implications of legislative control over the language of proposals.
Contention
Key points of contention include concerns about the potential for legislative bias in approving language changes, which could limit the ability of citizens to propose amendments. Critics may argue that requiring legislative approval for alterations could slow down the process and reduce responsiveness to public needs, raising questions about the balance of power between the legislature and the electorate.
Provides that the text to be used in a proposed amendment, proposition or question to be submitted to the people for approval shall be in the legislation proposing such amendment, proposition or question and shall not be altered without approval by the legislature.
Relates to the text of proposed constitutional amendments and questions; requires the state board of elections to publish the text of any proposed constitutional amendment, proposition or question; requires that the language of the proposed amendment, proposition or question be unbiased; requires that the language be prepared by the attorney general.
JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF THE LEGISLATIVE POWER (Proposes a state constitutional amendment that no department or other entity created by the state would have poser to incur debt in excess of $ 50,000, without express approval from the legislature and voters.)
JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF THE LEGISLATIVE POWER (Proposes a state constitutional amendment that no department or other entity created by the state would have poser to incur debt in excess of $ 50,000, without express approval from the legislature and voters.)
Provides that in certain instances the school district budget will be approved if the majority of the votes cast are in the affirmative and if the budget, without the separate proposition or propositions, does not exceed the tax levy limit.