Senator Addabbo to Address Primary Day Voting Problems

Election Committee Hearing to Identify Solutions
 
Queens, NY – Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., (D-Howard Beach) Chair of the
NY State Senate Election Committee is working with the New York City
Board of Elections to address issues with new voting machines that came to
light in Tuesday’s primary election.  Problems setting up the machines and
late delivery of equipment keys caused some polling places to open late, and
delays in signing in voters at others. 

"I understand the frustration of not being able to cast a ballot at the
designated place and time.  We all anticipated some issues, since these
new machines were being used for the first time ever by voters in New York City. 
I have been in discussions with the City Board of Elections to identify practical
solutions so our voters have an efficient and reliable general election in November,"
said Senator Addabbo. 

 Senator Addabbo and the Elections Committee plan to hold hearings later this
month to identify problems and solutions that can be implemented prior to
Election Day.  “Elections are a fundamental part of our society and our democracy. 
As Chair of the Senate Elections Committee it is my responsibility to hear the
concerns of voters and poll workers and act on them. I am concerned when the
administration cuts the budget for elections and then expects them to function
smoothly.” Addabbo said.

 Federal law required New York to replace the old lever-operated voting machines. 
New electronic optical scan machines were selected after extensive review and
testing of various systems.  While they had been used in other parts of the
state previously, they made their New York City debut in Tuesday’s primary.
 
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