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Bill

S 9671

Requires the board of elections to notify victims of domestic violence whose registration is maintained as confidential of the expiration of the confidentiality of such registration records

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Michelle Hinchey

Requires New York election officials to notify domestic violence victims before their confidential voter registration protection expires, enabling timely renewal of safety protections.

REFERRED TO ELECTIONS
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 9671

Legislative bill overview

S 9671 requires New York's Board of Elections to proactively notify domestic violence victims when their confidential voter registration status is about to expire. Confidential registration is a protection that keeps a victim's address hidden from public records and their abuser. The bill mandates advance warning so victims can renew their confidential status before it lapses.

Why is this important

Domestic violence victims rely on confidential voter registration as a safety measure to prevent abusers from locating them through public election records. Without notification of expiration dates, victims may lose this protection unknowingly and face serious safety risks. Proactive notification ensures this vulnerable population can maintain their privacy and protection.

Potential points of contention

  • Administrative burden and cost: The Board of Elections must establish systems to track expiration dates and contact victims, requiring resources and staff time
  • Contact method security: Notifying victims requires reliable contact information, but outdated addresses or phone numbers could compromise the confidentiality the system aims to protect
  • Privacy concerns: The notification process itself could inadvertently expose that someone has confidential status, potentially revealing victim information to household members or others with access to mail/email

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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