New York may soon join 32 other states in providing its electorate the opportunity to vote early if the Assembly’s newly adopted bill, AB 689, passes the Senate.
The state ranked “44th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia for voter participation” in 2012. The low turnout was attributed to Hurricane Sandy, as well as other convenience issues.
“After Hurricane Sandy strained voters and poll workers last November, we all recognize that change to our election system is vital,” said Diana Kasdan, senior counsel for the Brennan Center for Justice. “Fortunately, one part of the solution, early voting, has a proven track record. It is already available in more than half of the country, hugely popular and benefits election officials and voters alike.”
The bill, voted on party lines, would provide early voting 15 days before Election Day in general elections and eight days in primary and special elections.
“This legislation will make it more convenient for workers with long commutes as well as seniors,” said Chair of the Election Law Committee Michael Cusick. “It will also alleviate confusion and strain at the polls on Election Day evidenced by the fact that almost 30 percent of voters, nationally, chose to utilize early voting in presidential elections.”
Governor Andrew Cuomo reportedly supports early voting in New York.
Photo by Mr. Jincks via Creative Commons