Provides that qualified persons who are not registered to vote may register on a day of election at their polling places

1 Co-sponsor

• Brian Kavanagh

BILL NUMBER:A5257A

Title of bill

An act to amend the election law, in relation to allowing for polling place voter registration for any qualified person who is not registered to vote

Purpose or general idea of bill

To provide qualified persons who have never previously registered to vote with the opportunity on the day of an election.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 5-210 of the election law is amended by adding a new subdivision 1-a.

Justification

This legislation seeks to set parameters and guidelines for Election Day voter registration. Allowing for persons eligible to vote to register to vote up until and on Election Day has increased voter turnout in the six states (Idaho, Maine, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Wisconsin and Wyoming). On average, turnout was 14% higher in EDR states than across the country in the 2004 election cycle. New York consistently ranks near the bottom in voter turnout in the country. It is imperative the state take every action necessary to allow eligible voters the opportunity to register and vote. Most voters do not get excited or involved in elections until the very last moment when often it is too late to register to vote. This must be changed, voters should have the ability to register and vote on Election Day.

Prior legislative history

Similar Legislation: A.9670 (2005-06): referred to Election Law A.5762 (2003-04): referred to Election Law A.5004a (2001-02): Amended, held for consideration in Election Law A.9658 (1999-2000): held for consideration in Election Law A.4714 (2007-08): referred to election Law

Fiscal implications

None

Effective date

This act shall take effect January 1, 2011