S559

The New York State Senate passed legislation to increase compensation for poll workers in New York City, approving Senate Print 559 on a 46-14 vote. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Krueger, targets only New York City Board of Election workers and would provide higher pay for the demanding work of poll workers, many of whom are elderly and work long hours on election days. Fourteen senators voted against the measure, with Sen. Borrello citing concerns that the bill lacks a funding mechanism to support the increased costs for boards of elections. Sen. Krueger clarified during floor debate that the bill's scope is limited to New York City and does not apply to county boards of elections statewide, addressing fiscal concerns raised by colleagues representing rural and upstate districts. The measure takes effect immediately upon enactment.