NY S08615

Establishes an Election Security Navigator Program within the State Board of Elections to provide voluntary assistance to local boards of elections in mitigating cybersecurity threats, improving physical and operational preparedness, and enhancing public confidence in elections

Program functions include conducting risk assessments, facilitating information sharing on election threats, assisting with incident response planning, providing training, and helping local boards apply for federal grants such as Help America Vote Act and Homeland Security Grant Program funding

Requires the State Board of Elections to complete a needs-based assessment within three months of the act's effective date, consulting with local boards, state agencies, federal cybersecurity officials, and academic experts, with assessment information kept confidential

Mandates annual reports to the Governor and Legislature by March 1st each year detailing program performance metrics, services provided, identified risks, and any recommended statutory or budgetary changes

Funded through a separate general budget allocation with an annual budget request of not less than $3 million, adjusted for inflation, with authorization to seek additional federal and private funding sources