Requires colleges in the state to communicate all absentee deadlines for New York state elections

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why James Skoufis says this is needed

For university students who will not be in their home counties on Election Day, voting by mail gives them the opportunity to vote away from home. Since many college students have busy schedules and the cost and time for traveling back to their respective homes can be a barrier, voting by mail is an easier and more accessible option than traveling to polling places in their hometown. It also gives added incentive and acts as a reminder for students to research the candidates listed on the ballot before making their decisions. This bill will require colleges and universities in the state of New York to share the deadline for absentee ballot applications on their websites and through emails at least three times within a month before the applications are due to the board of elections. Students rely on their school websites and emails for information and updates about assignments and other activities. With busy schedules, it is easy for college students to forget to check online for the deadline and make possible travel arrangements ahead of time. This bill will help remind college students without them needing to check the board of elections website and encourage participation through civic duty.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.