§ 17-202. Interpretation of laws related to the elective franchise. In further recognition of the protections for the right to vote provided by the constitution of the state of New York, all statutes, rules and regulations, and local laws or ordinances related to the elective franchise shall be construed liberally in favor of (a) protecting the right of voters to have their ballot cast and counted; (b) ensuring that eligible voters are not impaired in registering to vote, and (c) ensuring voters of race, color, and language-minority groups have equitable access to fully participate in the electoral process in registering to vote and voting. The authority to prescribe or maintain voting or elections policies and practices cannot be so exercised as to unnecessarily deny or abridge the right to vote. Policies and practices that burden the right to vote must be narrowly tailored to promote a compelling policy justification that must be supported by substantial evidence.