Any New York voter can vote early by mail, no excuse needed

If you’re registered to vote in New York, you can vote by mail in any election without giving a reason. Before this law, you needed an excuse, like being out of town or sick, to get a mail ballot. Now you can ask your county board of elections for an early mail ballot online, by mail, or in person. Online and mailed applications must arrive at least 10 days before the election; you can apply in person through the day before it. Your ballot comes with a prepaid return envelope. Mail it with a postmark by Election Day, or drop it at a polling place in your county or your board of elections office.

Sen. Michael Gianaris wrote the bill, and Assembly Member Karines Reyes carried it in the Assembly. It passed the Senate 41–21 on June 6, 2023, and the Assembly 94–51 three days later. Gov. Kathy Hochul signed it on September 20, 2023, and it took effect January 1, 2024.

Rep. Elise Stefanik and Republican groups sued the day it was signed. They argued that the state constitution requires most people to vote in person. On August 20, 2024, New York’s highest court disagreed in a 6–1 ruling and let the law stand. The law remains in effect.