Albany – Assemblywoman Amy Paulin (D-88) is pleased to announce that A.7009/S.5741, legislation she authored, was passed by the New York State Assembly on Wednesday.

This bill would allow a voter to request a special ballot for a victim of domestic violence by mail, and cast the ballot by mail within the same time period and in the same manner as an absentee ballot.

Currently, a victim of domestic violence may request and cast a special ballot in person at the county board of elections rather than voting at his or her polling place. However, it may not be safe for a survivor to vote in person in the same county where his or her abuser resides. Allowing the special ballot to be cast by mail will ensure that domestic violence victims can safely exercise their right to vote.

“Survivors of domestic violence should not have to choose between exercising their right to vote and ensuring their safety,” Paulin said. “This bill will enable these individuals to vote safely and remain engaged in civic life.”

Diane Savino (D-23) sponsored the bill in the Senate.