Relates to providing voting materials and assistance in Haitian Creole

1 Co-sponsor

• Jesse Hamilton

Title of bill

An act to amend the election law, in relation to providing voting materials and assistance in Haitian Creole

Purpose or general idea of bill

The purpose of this bill is to allow for any Haitian Creole speakers to have an easier understanding of the election process.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1 is to provide all information that is provided by a board of elections in English about the electoral process, which includes registration or voting notices, forms, instructions, voting systems, ballot marking devices and ballots in Haitian Creole to the extent that is needed for the voters who speak Haitian Creole, and this information shall be provided on its website. A city-wide booklet that includes a voter registration form in English with instructions in Haitian Creole will be provided, as well as instructions in regard to the criteria and application process for obtaining an absentee ballot, and a section with general voter information, both in Haitian Creole. One or more Haitian Creole-speaking interpreters will be provided at each polling location in an election district that has a population comprised of five percent or more of people who identify as Haitian.

Justification

Providing interpreters who speak the Haitian-Creole language will make it possible for more Haitian-American residents to exercise their right to vote.

Prior legislative history

None

Fiscal implications

TBD

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the thirtieth day after it shall have become a law; provided, however, that effective immediately, the commissioners of the New York State board of elections shall promulgate all rules and regulations and take all actions necessary to implement the provisions of this act on or before its effective date.