USDOJ Sues New York State

The federal government's complaint contends that the state has failed to comply with two of HAVA's requirements governing federal elections: that states (i) adopt voting systems that are fully accessible by disabled voters and are capable of generating a permanent paper record that can be manually audited, and (ii) create a statewide computerized voter registration database. The lawsuit is the first filed to vindicate these important federal obligations.

This suit is the culmination of an extensive effort by the Civil Rights Division to ensure timely and full implementation of HAVA. The Division met with representatives from states around the country to appraise and assist with their implementation efforts. As part of this process, the Division closely reviewed New York officials' steps to comply with HAVA. The Division repeatedly urged to New York to come into compliance on a voluntary basis. As of the January 1, 2006 deadline, however, New York was not close to compliance with either provision.

HAVA was the first federal statute to provide federal funds to states to support reform of federal elections. As the government's complaint alleges, New York received approximately $221 million to assist its implementation of HAVA's requirements. This included more than $49 million specifically designated to assist the state replace its lever voting machines. Under HAVA, New York stands to lose these earmarked funds if it fails to replace these machines by the September 2006 primary election.

This lawsuit seeks a determination that the State of New York is not in compliance with HAVA's voting systems and database requirements, and an order requiring the state to submit promptly a plan demonstrating how it will come into full compliance.

To see a copy of the complaint, click here. [~63kb PDF]