New York legislators have introduced an important bill to improve the voting process – requiring amendment proposals and ballot measures to be written in plain and clear language.

About A1722A/S1381: Though the current law requires ballot measures to be “clear and coherent,” too often, they are written to be intentionally confusing and misleading to voters. The Plain Language Bill would set a standard for all ballot language to be written at or below an eighth grade reading level, and to be written in a Yes or No format, so all citizens have a fair opportunity to confidently cast their ballots.

The Senate has passed S1381! Tell your Assemblymember to co-sponsor and support A1722A so that each New Yorker gets a fair opportunity to make their voice heard at the polls.

Step 1: Find the phone number for your NY State Assemblymember here.

Step 2: Call your legislators!  

If you need an idea of what to say, you can use the script below:

“Hi, my name is [NAME], and I’m calling from [TOWN/CITY] about a bill that gives [NAME OF REPRESENTATIVE] the opportunity to improve the voting process for New Yorkers.

The Plain Language Bill (A1722A) would set a standard for all ballot language to be written at or below an eighth grade reading level, and to be written in a Yes or No format so all citizens have a fair opportunity to confidently cast their ballots.

As your constituent, I urge you to stand up for New York voters by supporting and co-sponsoring this bill. Thank you for your time.

Step 3: After calling, log your call using this form!