Way to go, New York! But wait, there’s more…
Online Voter Registration Is Here
New York State’s system for online voter registration is now open for business. It is both effective and accessible, and will go a long way toward strengthening our democracy. You can read more in this Gothamist piece by Brigid Bergin.
For young people, one of the best things about the new system is that it does not require an identification card issued by the NY DMV. (Most states require a driver’s license or state ID as a gate-key to online voter registration.) The need for a DMV-issued ID creates special obstacles for young people, who often do not drive. The barriers are highest for New York City youth, where so many rely on mass transit.
NY City residents without a state ID can register here.
NY residents who live outside of the five boroughs and who do not have a state ID can register here.
State residents with a DMV issued ID can register here.
This is welcome news given our recent research showing that only 16.5% of 16- and 17-year-olds have taken advantage of the state’s voter preregistration law, and wide disparities exist. In the Bronx, only 2.9 percent of 16- and 17-year-olds were preregistered. Citywide, the rate was only 5.2%. Ten upstate counties achieved rates above 40%, a notable disparity.
But wait, there’s more!
The NY state legislature has passed two bills which, if signed by Governor Hochul, will make voting even more accessible for youth:
S1733A seeks better implementation of high school voter registration and preregistration efforts. If signed, all school districts will need policies in place that require schools to help students register and preregister to vote. The obligation applies to charter schools and non-public schools, as well. New Yorkers interested in urging Governor Hochul to approve the bill can send her a supportive email.
The New York Early Mail Voter Act (S7394A) has also passed both houses of the NY Legislature and is awaiting signature by the Governor. If signed, it will make New York the 36th state to allow no-excuse vote by mail for all registered voters. Currently the state allows absentee voting only for those who have specific excuses. Brigid Bergin has a Gothamist article providing more details on this bill, as well.
Vote-by-mail is especially important for young people, who often are not physically present on Election Day in the place where they are registered. You can send a message to Governor Hochul in support of this bill here.
Imagine: What if every state, including New York, made it a priority to pass laws that put democracy first?