New York, New York –announced that her legislation (A.10960-A) to ensure the continued confidentiality of the voting addresses of domestic violence survivors has been signed into law. This legislation was sponsored by Michelle Hinchey in the State Senate. 

“Stalking, harassment and the many other abusive tactics used by perpetrators of domestic violence often continue long after a survivor has left the situation,” said Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal (D/WF-Manhattan). “The signing of this legislation will ensure that a survivor’s address information can be kept private by the Board of Elections for as long as necessary, ensuring confidentiality and protecting their safety.”

Under current law, domestic violence survivors may file a request with their local Board of Elections to keep their voter registration record, including their address, confidential. Any survivor at risk of physical or emotional harm to themselves or their family may apply for this four-year protection, which lasts for four years. However, there is no requirement that survivors be warned before such protection expires, leaving their information vulnerable once again.

Effective immediately, this new law requires local Boards of Election to notify survivors at least six months in advance of their protection expiring. Such notice will remind survivors of the date their protection will end and the process for filing a new request to ensure the continued confidentiality of their records. This law was signed by Governor Hochul during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. 

“Survivors may spend years rebuilding their lives after escaping an abusive situation,” said Assemblymember Rosenthal. “With so much going on, it can be easy to forget to renew this crucial protection, underscoring the importance of receiving advance notice from the Board of Elections. With a simple notice, survivors will be empowered to renew these protections, shielding their addresses from those who wish to do harm.”