Can new yorkers vote by mail
In New York State, voters can request an absentee ballot, which is essentially a mail-in ballot, but it's not the same as vote-by-mail systems used in some other states.
Here's how it works:
- Request an absentee ballot: Eligible voters can request an absentee ballot by filling out an application, which can be found on the New York State Board of Elections website or by contacting their local board of elections.
- Reason for requesting: Voters must provide a reason for requesting an absentee ballot, such as being unable to vote in person due to illness, disability, or being out of town on election day.
- Application deadline: The application deadline varies depending on the election. For primary elections, the deadline is usually 7-10 days before the election. For general elections, the deadline is usually 14 days before the election.
- Ballot receipt: Completed absentee ballots must be received by the local board of elections by the close of polls on election day.
- Signature verification: Absentee ballots are verified by comparing the voter's signature on the ballot with their signature on file with the board of elections.
While New York State does allow absentee voting, it's not a vote-by-mail system like some other states, where voters can simply request a ballot and vote by mail without needing to provide a reason. However, the state is exploring ways to expand absentee voting and potentially implement a vote-by-mail system in the future.
In 2020, New York State passed a law allowing all registered voters to cast an absentee ballot in the November general election due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This law was temporary and has since expired. However, there are ongoing efforts to make absentee voting more accessible and convenient for New York voters.