Governor Signs Legislation to Clarify the Process of Nominating Candidates for Office

Queens, NY – Today, Senator Tony Avella and Assemblywoman Sandy Galef announced that their bill, (A3422/S1421) which adds a space to include a legislative district number, if applicable, on petitions to become a candidate was signed into law by Governor Cuomo (Chapter 176) on August 21, 2017.  The legislation will prevent petitions from being invalidated due to a lack of unspecified, but required, information.

It is the right of an individual to petition to become a candidate, just as it is the right of an individual to vote. Unfortunately, a number of petitions for those attempting to run for office have been invalidated because they are missing the title of the office and geographic boundaries. Providing a specific designation for the office and geographic boundaries on sample petitions available from the New York State Board of Elections will better inform individuals of what is required to participate in the democratic process as candidates.

“When you are running for office, you are working hard to make sure that you do everything correctly,” said Galef. “At a time when we are in need of more people to run for office, and more people to vote, it is imperative that we make the process straightforward and accessible. Not allowing a person to become a candidate just because the petition was not clear as to what information is necessary will be clarified by this new election law.”

Senator Tony Avella said, “Our state should be doing everything in its power to make it easier for residents to get involved in government and serve their communities. By not mentioning the fact that certain information is required on the petition leaves many potential new candidates open to submitting an invalid petition. Clarifying this oversight will open the door to more New Yorkers who wish to make a difference in their communities by holding elected office.”

This new law will go into effect immediately.