Voting in person in 2020 look much different due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are the details New York voters need to know.
Do voters need to wear a mask?
Yes, the state's April executive order requiring face masks in public places applies to polling locations. Polling locations may opt to have masks available for voters who arrive without one. The Board of Elections also recommends polling places have an isolated area for voters who is unable to wear a mask.
Who will be allowed into a polling place?
The state Board of Election references CDC guidance to limit non-essential visitors in order to allow for maximum social distancing. There isn't a limit on the number of people who can be inside a given polling place, only that 6 feet of space should be maintained as much as possible.
Do I need my temperature checked before voting in-person?
No, the Board of Elections says there is no requirement for temperature or symptom screenings before entering a polling location.
Will I have a clean pen to mark my ballot?
The Board of Elections makes two suggestions here for polling locations. First, pens that are going to be reused must be disinfected between uses. The second option is for a polling place to utilize single-use pens.
Will my voting booth be cleaned?
County boards of elections must develop site-specific plans for each poll site, according to the state's guidance. It's recommended that each poll site has hand sanitizing stations.