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June 21, 2023

Dear County Leaders, County Legislators and County Supervisors,

 

Despite our expressed opposition and repeated attempts to prevent state lawmakers from passing legislation requiring most county and town elections to be held on even years (S.3505-B (Skoufis) / A.4282-B (Paulin), the Assembly and Senate both passed this bill on the last day of the joint session – June 10, 2023.


But, there is still an opportunity to keep this from becoming law.


We encourage you to ask the Governor to veto this bill if you are opposed to moving these local elections to even years when presidential, gubernatorial, congressional, and state legislative elections are held. These elections tend to focus on national and statewide issues, with little regard for the community concerns raised during local elections.


At the request of many of our members, NYSAC has prepared the following resources which you can localize for use in reaching out to the Governor:

NYSAC’s memorandum in opposition to this legislation which was shared with the state legislature.

NYSAC’s opposition letter to the Governor’s counsel, urging Governor Hochul to veto this bill.

A resolution template in opposition and the adopted version from Saratoga County.

NYSAC’s statement on the negative implications of this legislation.

Talking points that you can use to engage with your local media. 

We encourage you to send a letter to the Governor’s counsel and copy your local news reporters and editors on the transmittal so they can be aware of your position on this legislation and its potential impact on local elections.


Governor Hochul has until the NYS Assembly delivers the bill to her desk to make a decision on how she will act. This could be as late as the end of the year. But you can voice your opposition now.


NYSAC will provide an update when this legislation is delivered to the Governor for her consideration. In the meantime, we hope that you find this material of value in your advocacy efforts. 

 

Sincerely,



Michael E. Zurlo

NYSAC President


The New York State Association of Counties is a bipartisan municipal association serving all the counties of New York State, including the City of New York.

Organized in 1925, NYSAC's mission is to represent, educate, serve and advocate for member counties and the elected and appointed county officials who serve the public.

For more information, visit www.nysac.org
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