NY A05389

Allows civic organizations and ballot issue committees to appoint nonpartisan poll monitors in addition to existing party watchers, with a limit of two monitors per organization per polling place.

Requires organizations to file a statement with the state board of elections 30-45 days before an election, including proof they have maintained a New York office and phone number for at least one year and are devoted to voter protection and election integrity purposes.

State board of elections must approve or deny applications within two business days, with appeals available to commissioners within two business days of denial.

Poll monitors must be registered voters in the county where they monitor, cannot be candidates or close relatives of candidates, cannot be law enforcement, must wear identification badges, and present signed credentials to election inspectors upon arrival.

Approved monitors may observe election procedures, report violations to inspectors, remain during vote canvassing, assist voters upon request, and keep records of votes and procedures, with a maximum of four organizations or committees allowed at any single polling place at one time.