NY Lawmakers Urged To Revamp Voting Rules, OK Early Ballots

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — A broad coalition of good government groups and locally elected officials are urging New York state lawmakers to make changes to the state's antiquated voting laws a priority in the new year.

The group includes more than 175 advocacy groups focused on the environment, immigration and housing issues, as well as unions, faith groups and dozens of local municipal officials.

They back proposals to authorize early voting and ease registration rules as a way to encourage turnout. They also want lawmakers to strengthen campaign finance laws.

The group held a rally at the state Capitol on Monday, two days before lawmakers begin the 2019 session.

Similar proposals have failed in the past, but supporters are optimistic after Democrats wrested control of the Senate from Republicans in last fall's elections.