Senate Advances Reforms to Protect Election Integrity and Support Election Workers

The Senate Majority Conference details new election reforms to be introduced in the State Senate

The New York State Senate today passed legislation to further protect election workers, prevent voter disenfranchisement, introduce a process for “back-end” automatic voter registration, grant voters the ability to register at a secondary residence, partner with agencies to promote voter registration, and establish a uniform training curriculum for all election commissioners. Included is the Democracy Preservation Act to protect state and local elections from foreign interference. The 2025 legislative package continues the Senate Majority Conference tradition of kicking off session by passing major pro-voter, anti-disenfranchisement, and pro-democracy policies.

Senate Majority Leader, and bill sponsor, Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “This comprehensive package of legislation protects the integrity of our elections while supporting the dedicated workers who make them possible. By combating deceptive practices and voter suppression through my bill, S1085, we are ensuring that every New Yorker can cast their ballot free from fear or misinformation. Additionally, by enhancing voter accessibility, strengthening voter registration through secure automatic processes, and increasing transparency in political communications, we are standing firm in defense of every New Yorker’s right to vote. By investing in robust training and fair compensation for election commissioners and workers, we are creating a system that values their critical role. These bills reflect our unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring a fair and accessible electoral process for all.”

Bill sponsor, Deputy Leader Mike Gianaris said, “Our democracy is stronger when access to voting is more accessible, and our elections are free from undue interference. There should not be roadblocks to the ballot box, whether from obstacles to registration or the inappropriate influence of big money. I am proud the State Senate is once again leading the way on protecting our democratic institutions.” 

Bill sponsor and Chair of the Senate Committee on Elections, Senator Kristen Gonzalez said, “At a time when our democracy is under threat, the New York State Senate is working to protect it. This package builds on the strength of New York’s voting laws and is a reflection of our conference’s vision of a democracy that can withstand the challenges of the 21st century. I look forward to working as chair of the Elections Committee to move bills that ensure that New York continues to be a beacon of democracy, fairness, and justice.”
 

related legislation

Senators Involved

35th Senate District

12th Senate District

59th Senate District

48th Senate District

37th Senate District

20th Senate District

42nd Senate District