Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Rockaway), is urging passage of bill A.8917, which she co-sponsors, that will move the upcoming NYS Primary day from Tuesday, September 11, 2018. This date coincides with the second day of the Jewish holiday Rosh Hashanah. Because of certain restrictions associated with Rosh Hashanah this date could be problematic for observant Jews who wish to participate in the primary election. The date also marks the 17th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks – an anniversary that many New Yorkers choose to solemnly observe.

“Every New Yorker deserves to be able to vote.” Pheffer Amato said. “September 11th is a significant day of remembrance and memorial for many New Yorkers and also coincides with the Jewish holiday Rosh Hashanah. Accommodations for religious observances such as this should be a no-brainer. Rosh Hashanah is one of the holiest days on the Jewish calendar, and those who observe it should not be forced to choose their religious obligations over the civic right to vote.”