Relates to the validity of ballots

This bill amends New York's election law to clarify that a voter's ballot remains valid even if it is torn. Currently, the law states that defacing a ballot can render it void, but this legislation specifically removes the penalty for tearing a ballot while keeping restrictions on other forms of damage or markings. The change directly affects voters who may accidentally rip their ballots, ensuring their votes are still counted as long as the intent is clear. By updating the legal definition of ballot validity, the measure aims to prevent the accidental disqualification of ballots due to minor physical damage.