(Albany, NY)- State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/C/I-Mt. Hope) announced today that his bill, S.1002, which would set uniform dates for school proposition votes has passed the Senate. The bill would amend the Education Law to state that all school proposition votes be held on the third Tuesday in May. However, the election shall be held on the second Tuesday in May if the Commissioner of Education certifies no later than March 1st that such election would conflict with a religious holiday.

Additionally, school district proposition votes may also take place on either or both of two separate dates to be set by the Commissioner of Education, not to be between the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November and the third Monday of January. Finally, if in the event of an emergency or disaster situation a proposition must be offered, a school board may, by two- thirds majority vote, set its own date for the proposition.

“I’m pleased that this piece of legislation has passed the Senate with bi-partisan support,” said Senator Bonacic. “I strongly believe that this bill will increase voter participation by setting a uniform date, and also increase transparency in the election process.”

Many times school districts choose dates for proposition votes that result in low-turnout elections, and happen during times of the year where individuals may not be paying close attention. This legislation would seek to increase voter participation, and bring attention to the issue by having a set time for school proposition votes.

The bill has been sent to the Assembly.