NY S06995

Absentee ballot applications that do not include a qualifying reason will automatically be processed as early mail ballot applications instead of being rejected

Removes the requirement for absentee ballot affirmations to state the specific reason for inability to vote in person; replaces with a general affirmation that application information is true and correct

Extends early mail ballot request validity from a single calendar year to a full two-year election cycle (January of odd-numbered year through December of subsequent even-numbered year)

Military and special federal voters can now submit ballot applications via facsimile, email, or other electronic methods; their ballot eligibility continues indefinitely until registration is cancelled, inactivated, or voter no longer qualifies

Reduces the waiting period for special federal voter registration eligibility from 30 days to 10 days after receipt of application

Standardizes ballot envelope labels by removing specific designations like "ABSENTEE" or "EARLY MAIL" in favor of generic "OFFICIAL BALLOT" across election law, education law, and town law provisions