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NY A10708
Bill
Status
9/9/2022
Primary Sponsor
Stefani Zinerman
Click for details
AI Summary
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Defines "plain language" for ballot statements as requiring no higher than an eighth grade reading level (score of 9 or lower on automated reading index), no more than one passive sentence, no semicolons, and no double negatives.
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Establishes automated reading index formula using character count, word count, and sentence count to measure readability of ballot language.
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Requires State Board of Elections to publicly release proposed ballot language at least four months before general election and accept public comment for a minimum of fifteen days before finalizing.
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Restructures ballot form requirements to include: a descriptive title (up to 15 words), question text (up to 30 words), plain language statement of YES/NO vote meanings (up to 30 words), and fiscal statement (up to 25 words when required).
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Requires State Board of Elections and all county boards maintaining websites to display ballot information prominently at least two months before general election.
Legislative Description
Requires a proposed amendment to the constitution or other question provided by law to be submitted to a statewide vote be submitted to the people for their approval in plain language which is deemed to be no higher than an eighth grade reading level.
Last Action
referred to election law
9/9/2022