A court just upheld New York’s law shifting many local races to even years — but full off-year election elimination is still a long way off, according to Spectrum News 1.
The change, meant to boost turnout and reduce costs, kicks in next year but doesn’t affect city or some county-level races protected by the state constitution. Elections officials say off-year ballots will still be packed for now, especially with DAs and judges.
Supporters say turnout will rise as more voters head to the polls during major elections. Critics argue it dilutes local races and won’t save money anytime soon. A full shift would require a constitutional amendment — and that’s at least two years away.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to news@fingerlakes1.com.