BILL NUMBER: S5493
SPONSOR: WALCZYK
 
TITLE OF BILL:
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION OF THE SENATE AND ASSEMBLY proposing an amendment
to section 7 of article 2 of the Constitution, in relation to requiring
the use of paper ballots in elections
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
This constitutional amendment would require the use of paper ballots in
all elections held in New York State.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 - Amends section 7 of article 2 of the New York State Consti-
tution to require the use of paper ballots in all elections in the
state.
Section 2-outlines the process for ratification of said amendment via
votes in two consecutive legislative sessions, followed by a vote by the
public at the next election.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Election experts agree that the most secure way of voting is through the
use of paper ballots. Paper ballots leave a physical trail of each
voter's choices in any election. The New York State Election Commission-
ers Association has endorsed this idea, which will enhance election
integrity in elections across our state.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New Bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:
May result in increased costs to accommodate for paper ballots.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This bill will have to pass the Assembly and Senate in two consecutive
legislative sessions, followed by a vote by the public in the next
general election.