Byrne Co-Sponsored Bill Improving Ballot Clarity Passes State Assembly
Nonpartisan legislation would require clear communication notifying voters of two-sided ballots
Assemblyman Kevin Byrne (R,C,I,Ref-Mahopac) announced today the state Assemblys passage of a bill (A.09923) which would require clear instructions to indicate to voters whether or not an election ballot is two-sided. The nonpartisan legislation, sponsored by Assemblyman David Buchwald and co-sponsored by Byrne, would amend election law in relation to ballot proposals and represents a productive step forward in efforts to improve clarity in our states election process.
It is almost always necessary to utilize both sides of a ballot for various questions and referendums. However, under current law, it is oftentimes difficult to discern whether or not there are provisions on the side of a ballot opposite the names of the candidates running for office. This legislation would ensure that voters are appropriately informed in the event of a two-sided ballot.
Id like to take a moment to commend my colleagues on both sides of the aisle who worked to ensure the passage of this common-sense legislation, said Byrne. It is extremely unfortunate when voters are unable to weigh in on important measures, as feared during last years Constitutional Convention proposition, because they are unaware that the provision is on the back of their ballot. The Assemblys passage of this bill represents a major victory in our efforts to amend this issue, and I urge the state Senate to join us in pursuing our goal of providing clear instructions to those who exercise their voting rights.
Upon its near unanimous passage in the state Assembly, this bill was delivered to the Senate on April 16. Currently the legislation is being reviewed by the Senates Elections Committee.
To learn more about this legislation, or to discuss Byrnes activities at home and in Albany, contact his district office at (845) 278-2923.