Thursday, January 18, 2018

Assemblywoman Jenne co-sponsors bill to improve availability of voter information


Assemblywoman Addie A.E. Jenne, D-Theresa, announced a bill (A.1057) she co-sponsored to improve communication between state and county boards of election and voters has passed the state Assembly.

The legislation, sponsored by Assemblywoman Sandy Galef, D-Ossining, allows voters to include an e-mail address on their voter registration application and record.

The change would allow the state Board of Elections to send notices and other communications electronically, in addition to by traditional mail.

"We know a minority of registered voters cast ballots in most elections and improving communication with voters is one way of working to improve turnout," Assemblywoman Jenne said.

"This legislation reflects the reality that more and more North Country residents are using e-mail as their primary method of communication. While there could be an initial cost to implement the new system, it’s clear this will likely result in long-term savings as voters down the road opt to receive notices solely by e-mail," she added.