Cases & Actions
Reducing Racial Discrimination in Voting Through Election Alignment in New York
In 2023, The Election Law Clinic provided a detailed analysis of the racially disparate impact of holding off-cycle elections in towns and counties in New York to support an advocacy letter urging Governor Hochul to sign the Election Alignment Bill (A4282B/S3505B) that passed both houses of the New York State Legislature.
In 2024, ELC provided written testimony in relation to Resolution 189 (Ung), calling on the Legislature to move New York City elections to even-numbered years, submitted to the 12/4/2024 public hearing at the Committee on Governmental Operations, State & Federal Legislation.
STATUS: OPEN
UPDATED: December 3, 2024
ISSUES: Election Timing, Racial Discrimination
BACKGROUND
Under existing New York law, towns and counties hold primary elections in June of odd-numbered years and general elections in November of odd-numbered years, which is “off-cycle” from federal and state elections held in even-numbered years. The Election Alignment Bill would shift these local contests to even-numbered years so they are “on-cycle” with federal and state elections. This measure would reduce burdens on voters, facilitate more accessible public education surrounding elections, and increase participation in elections for these critical local offices.
On-/Off-Cycle Election Effects in 16 New York Counties
