It is important to note that the time taken to count ballots in the 2019 general election
was NO LONGER than in previous elections.
But because votes were close, people got impatient.
Early ballots are not the problem.
The problems have more to do with lack of equipment and staffing and a few administrative rules that can be changed.
The Bills that League OPPOSES.
These bills are confusing people, and so we are using the explanation provided to us by staff in Sen. Ugenti-Rita's office.
Would require anyone who actually receives a ballot at an on-site polling location or early voting center -- including someone bringing in a spoiled early ballot -- to show photo ID.
* In our opinion, these requirements are redundant with current law. But, since League believes photo ID is a form of voter suppression, affecting more often people of color, the elderly and the poor, we do not support these bills.
1072
also
will not allow voting centers to entirely replace specifically designated polling places, thus leading to hybrid systems on voting day.
* Hybrid systems are confusing to voters, and cost more because more polling places, machinery and staff are needed.
Voting centers are convenient and allow flexibility and can be open for periods of time before an election.
Would
require that
those receiving early ballots
MUST return
their voted ballot
only
by mail -- no more dropping off at an early voting location, or at the polls on election day. Those not mailing ballots back, who want to vote on election day, would have to vote a provisional ballot.
* This bill creates obstacles to voting. Early ballots are convenient, and increase voter turn-out.
A Bill that League SUPPORTS.
Would allow up to 5 days after an election for early ballots to be "cured". If there is a question about a person's signature, he/she can be contacted and the ballot fixed.
* A person's vote should count if at all possible.
And this bill makes the process consistent across the state. (The League intervened successfully in the GOP lawsuit against such curing, filed after the general election -- the court agreed to allow ballot curing to continue, for that election only.)
