New York Could Add One Million Voters In 2013

An estimated one million potential voters could be added to New York state’s rolls should forthcoming legislation be enacted, according to the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law. State Sen. Michael Gianaris, the co-sponsor of legislation that would modernize New York’s voter registration system, said his bill “will make it easier for people to vote.” He said he plans to introduce the bill by early June at the latest and, if adopted, it would take effect in 2013.

At the heart of the legislation, crafted with assistance from the Brennan Center and other organizations, is a mandated shift from the current paper-based voter registration system to one reliant on electronic records.

Importantly, the bill, called An Act to Modernize Voter Registration, would offer New York residents the opportunity to register to vote when they seek services, such as housing or unemployment insurance, from state or federal agencies, in addition to current voter registration offered through the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. The automated, computer-based system will allow online voter registration and a more expedient process for updating change of addresses or “portability” for those who move within the state.

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