NY A07783

Establishes automatic hand recount of all ballots when the vote margin is 10 votes or less, or one-half of one percent of ballots cast (whichever is greater), with costs paid by the jurisdiction.

Allows losing candidates to request a recount and specify up to three precincts to be counted first, with the recount completed within five days; candidate must post bond for costs unless the recount reveals a different winner or ballot images differ from machine counts.

Sets maximum fee of 25 cents per ballot for hand recounts, to be established and posted by each county board of elections before an election.

Permits eligible voters to request recounts on referendum or proposition questions if the approval/disapproval margin is less than one-half of one percent (funded by jurisdiction) or more than one-half of one percent (funded by requesting voter with petition of 25 signatures).

Requires recount requests to be made within five days of the original recount completion, mandates public notice and observation, prohibits candidates from participating in the recount, and makes state reimburse jurisdictions for recount costs.