NYS Court of Appeals upholds Early Mail Voter Act

August 20, 2024 Brooklyn Eagle Staff

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STATEWIDE — THE NYS COURT OF APPEALS ON Tuesday affirmed the constitutionality of the New York Early Mail Voter Act, which the Office of the Attorney General defended from a lawsuit brought by opponents challenging the legislature’s authority to enact mail-in-voting. The decision was applauded by NYS Attorney General Letitia James, who said in a statement Tuesday, “The right to vote is the cornerstone of our nation, and government should make it easier for citizens to have their voices heard, not harder.” Gov. Kathy Hochul also praised the decision, saying, “Today’s ruling is a significant victory for democracy and another loss for those who seek to disenfranchise New Yorkers and undermine access to the ballot.” In 2023, the state legislature passed the New York Early Mail Voter Act to allow all authorized registered voters to apply to vote by mail for any election in which they were eligible to participate.

NYGOP Chair Ed Cox, however, was unhappy with the ruling, calling it “an affront to every New Yorker.” The lawsuit was led by House GOP Chair Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.). Chief Judge Rowan Wilson ruled the law was constitutional, according to The Hill.

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