Provides that qualified voters who choose to vote by mail may do so

3 Co-sponsors

• Leroy Comrie
• Timothy M. Kennedy
• Bill Perkins

BILL NUMBER:S4353

Title of bill

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION OF THE SENATE AND ASSEMBLY proposing an amendment to section 2 of article 2 of the constitution, in relation to voting by mail

Purpose

Proposing an amendment to section 2 of article 2 of the constitution, in relation to voting by mail.

Summary of provisions

Section 1: The section 2 of article 2 of the constitution be amended to read as follows:

§ 2. The legislature may, by general law, provide a manner in which, and the time and place at which, qualified voters who, on the occurrence of any election, may be absent from the county of their residence, or if residents of the city of New York, from the city, and qualified voters who, on the occurrence of any election, may be unable to appear personally at the polling place because of illness or physical disability, may vote and for return and canvass of their votes can choose to vote by mail may do so.

§ 2. Resolved that the foregoing amendment be referred to the first regular legislative session convening after the next succeeding general election of members of the assembly, and, in conformity with section 1 of article 19 of the constitution, be published for 3 months previous to the time of such election.

Justification

"Vote By Mail" was implemented in Oregon when constituents from all walks of life: Republicans, Democrats, Independents, college students, senior citizens, community leaders and housewives collected 100,000 signatures to vote by mail. As a result, voter turnout increased. In addition, it saves the state money and is many voters enjoy the convenience of voting from home. New York States voter turnout has plummeted. New York, being one of the largest states, receives less than a third of the eligible population vote. New York's turnout is a shameful 28.8 percent, the fourth-lowest in the county. Vote by Mail transcends the typical partisan battles seen so often in our initiative process because it is an idea that makes sense: it increases voter participation, saves money and makes democracy more convenient for everyone.

Prior legislative history

NEW

Fiscal implications

To be determined.

Effective date

Resolved that the foregoing amendment be referred to first regular legislative session convening after the next succeeding general election of members of the assembly and, in conformity with section 1 of article 19 of the constitution, be published for 3 months previous to the time of such election.