SULLIVAN — The State Legislature approved a bill on Monday that will allow New Yorkers to cast their vote up to 10 days before election day.

Early voting was part of a set of bills passed by the new Democratic majority that takes aim at reforming New York's election system, including bills to modernize and expand voter registration, impose limits on LLC contributions, extend Primary Election voting hours and ensure uniformity throughout the state.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has expressed his support for early voting, which 38 states already allow, and is expected to sign the bill into law.

Supporters of the early voting reform say giving state residents more time to vote will both increase turnout and reduce lines on Election Day.

“This package of election reforms advances our most fundamental democratic right, the right to vote, and will do much to address the flaws and barriers in our current laws that have contributed to New York having one of the worst voter-turnout records in the country,” said State Senator Jen Metzger. “Expanding opportunities to vote will be particularly beneficial to more rural communities, where work obligations and transportation constraints can pose obstacles to getting to the polls on election day.”

Sullivan County Legislature Chairman Luis Alvarez commended the move, but recognized the increased costs it would bring.

“State legislators - and soon, Governor Cuomo - have taken a historic step forward in ensuring the rights of voters are not curtailed by the limitations of their work and family obligations,” Chairman Alvarez said. “For many counties, this legislation will make an important and lasting difference in elections. Like our State leaders, I want as many voters coming to the polls as possible. However, Sullivan County's budget does not include additional funds for the significant costs of these new initiatives, like early voting. I ask that the State provide that funding, so that local taxpayers are not burdened further.”

Supporters argue that a measure to consolidate New York's federal and state primary elections, which are currently about three months apart, will help to offset the increased costs of early voting.

“Sullivan County and its Board of Elections are awaiting the Governor's signature and subsequent direction from the State Board of Elections,” said Sullivan County Communications Director Dan Hust.