Governor Kathy Hochul of New York has enacted a series of voting laws aimed at overhauling the state’s existing voting system. Signed at New York Law School, the ten laws form a component of the broader legislative efforts, stemming from New York’s John Lewis Voting Rights Act, signed last year.
These laws are expected to modernize every phase of the voting process, from registration to ballot casting to the Electoral College. Governor Hochul expressed optimism about the expansion of voting rights, citing the successful implementation of early voting by mail during the pandemic.
One of the standout provisions in the new legislation enables any registered voter in New York to cast their vote early by mail, a practice seen as advantageous during the pandemic period.
Furthermore, the new laws encompass the establishment of same-day voter registration and the expansion of voter education and registration programs, including pre-registration initiatives. Additionally, upon their release, individuals who have been incarcerated will now be immediately provided with voter registration forms.
However, these legislative changes have been met with opposition, as U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, along with other House Republicans, has lodged a lawsuit against Governor Hochul and the state of New York.
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