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A 10960

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 Steve Otis and 1 co-sponsor

The bill requires the Board of Elections to mailVictims with confidential registrations a notice at least six months before the four-year confidentiality expires, including extensi

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 10960

Summary: A.10960 (2025-2026) – Notification of Confidential Domestic Violence Registrations’ Expiration

Purpose and Intent

  • This bill adds a requirement for the New York State Board of Elections to notify victims of domestic violence whose voter registration records are kept confidential about when that confidentiality period will expire.
  • The goal is to ensure victims are aware when their confidential registration status is nearing its end and to provide information on how to extend the confidentiality period.

Key Provisions

  • Amends Election Law, Section 5-508, by adding a new subsection (c) to Subdivision 2.
  • The Board of Elections must:
    • Provide a notice to each victim of domestic violence whose registration is maintained confidential under the statute.
    • Include the expiration date of the current four-year confidentiality period.
    • Include information about the process to extend the four-year confidentiality period.
    • Mail the notice no later than six months prior to the expiration date.
  • Effective Date: Immediate upon enactment.

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Primary Beneficiaries: Victims of domestic violence whose voter registration records are kept confidential under New York law.
  • Effect on Election Administration: Requires the Board of Elections to perform proactive outreach, ensuring recipients receive timely notice and information regarding extension options.
  • Privacy/Confidentiality Context: Ensures victims remain informed about the status of their confidentiality and the ability to extend protection if needed.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

  • Timing: Notice must be mailed at least six months before the confidential period expires.
  • Process Details: The notice must explain how to apply to extend the four-year confidentiality period, as part of the outreach.
  • Scope: Applies to individuals whose registrations are maintained confidentially under the relevant confidentiality provisions.

Additional Notes

  • The bill is straightforward and narrowly tailored to enhance awareness and continuity of confidentiality protection for domestic violence victims.
  • It does not alter the underlying eligibility or criteria for confidentiality, only the notification process regarding expiration and extension.

If you’d like, I can provide a side-by-side comparison with current law (without the new subsection) or a practical checklist for election officials to implement the notification process.

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

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