New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A10947

Introduced
4/14/26  

Caption

Requires a commissioner of a board of elections to meet certain qualifications before their appointment which shall include, but not be limited to, the qualifications prescribed by section three of the public officers law, and demonstrated experience in election administration or other management, operations, or administrative experience in the public, non-profit, or private sector as deemed sufficient by the board.

Impact

Should A10947 be enacted, it would instigate a sweeping reform in how boards of elections operate across New York. By setting a formal structure for selecting election commissioners based on qualifications and experience, the bill is expected to improve operational efficiency and transparency within the state's electoral processes. The requirement for regular reviews and updates to these qualifications could further adapt the roles of commissioners to the evolving needs of election administration.

Summary

Bill A10947 proposes significant amendments to New York's election laws by establishing new qualifications for commissioners of boards of elections. Specifically, it mandates that these qualifications include criteria outlined by the Public Officers Law, as well as demonstrated experience in election administration or related management and operations within the public, non-profit, or private sectors. This initiative aims to enhance the expertise level among election officials and ensure that those responsible for overseeing elections possess a requisite level of proficiency and experience.

Contention

The introduction of A10947 has sparked some debate among lawmakers and stakeholders. Proponents argue that the bill is essential for enhancing the integrity and professionalism of electoral oversight. They believe that equipping boards of elections with qualified leaders will ultimately lead to more reliable elections. Conversely, critics may raise concerns over the implementation of these qualifications, fearing potential restrictions on who can serve, particularly if it disproportionately affects smaller or rural communities' ability to appoint qualified individuals. Additionally, the ongoing assessment of qualifications every two years could lead to bureaucratic challenges and increased administrative workload.

Companion Bills

NY S05452

Same As Requires a commissioner of a board of elections to meet certain qualifications before their appointment which shall include, but not be limited to, the qualifications prescribed by section three of the public officers law, and demonstrated experience in election administration or other management, operations, or administrative experience in the public, non-profit, or private sector as deemed sufficient by the board.

Previously Filed As

NY S05452

Requires a commissioner of a board of elections to meet certain qualifications before their appointment which shall include, but not be limited to, the qualifications prescribed by section three of the public officers law, and demonstrated experience in election administration or other management, operations, or administrative experience in the public, non-profit, or private sector as deemed sufficient by the board.

NY S06237

Limits the experiential qualifications of group teachers for preschool classes and groups teachers for infant or toddler classes to what was required for their educational qualifications or certain college credits in related areas.

NY A06210

Limits the experiential qualifications of group teachers for preschool classes and groups teachers for infant or toddler classes to what was required for their educational qualifications or certain college credits in related areas.

NY S08615

Establishes an election security navigator program within the state board of elections to provide assistance for local boards of elections in mitigating cybersecurity threats, improving physical and operational preparedness, and enhancing public confidence in the integrity of elections.

NY SB443

Local Boards of Elections - Board Counsel - Qualifications

NY HB621

Local Boards of Elections - Board Counsel - Qualifications

NY A10502

Requires polls for special town elections to open on otherwise scheduled general election days, as designated by the state board of elections.

NY HB4288

Relating to the administration of elections, including the public inspection of certain election records.

NY A00400

Relates to the composition of boards of elections; provides that such boards shall have other qualifications for performing their duties as the legislature may direct.

NY S05195

Relates to the composition of boards of elections; provides that such boards shall have other qualifications for performing their duties as the legislature may direct.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.