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News Bulletin:
 Early Voting Funding Testimony
This week the League testified before the Joint Budget Committee on Public Protection. This committee oversees funding related to government agencies that provide judicial services and government security. One of the many agencies under this umbrella is the State Board of Elections.
The League presented testimony calling for $9 million in funding for the implementation of early voting in 2019. This funding would cover the cost of poll site rentals, security, staff, and voter education. We recommended the state allocate an additional $9 million for technology upgrades and new voting equipment including electronic poll books.
You can read our full testimony here.
Letter to Legislative Leaders on Ethics Reforms
In addition to our voting advocacy, this week the League signed on to a letter to legislative leaders calling for passage of reforms to increase transparency and accountability in New York's contract procurement process.
The League has been working with our good government partners to pass meaningful reforms that would prevent future corruption in the state's contract bidding and awardment process. We are once again working with our partners to see these reforms included in the state budget legislation.
You can read the letter and statement here.
State Budget Lobby Kit
Next week we will be releasing a packet of lobbying materials that local Leagues can use to conduct their own advocacy on funding for early voting, campaign finance, and ethics. This packet will include a simplified version of our testimony and talking points on some of the ethics legislation included in the Governor's budget proposal.
Member Call on Voting Reform Bills: February 7th
Join us next Thursday, February 7th, at 7:00 pm for a member-wide call
to discuss the current state of voting reforms recently passed by the legislature and budgetary implications for these reforms.
Call In: (800) 220-9875
Code: 24883385
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