Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and Election Law Committee Chair Michael Cusick today announced passage of legislation to move the 2012 primary election from Tuesday September 11 to Thursday September 13.

The measure (A.10112/Silver) recognizes and respects the significance of the anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks by rescheduling the 2012 fall primary. A similar measure marked the passage of sixth anniversary of the attacks in 2007.

"September 11th will forever be a day of reflection for all Americans and a national day of unity," said Silver. "Moving the primary election is appropriate and it recognizes the importance of pausing to pay tribute to the victims of the terrible events of that day."

"This legislation to change the primary date from September 11th to September 13th, recognizes September 11th as a solemn day and the importance of setting that day aside to reflect upon the memory of all those who lost their lives on that terrible day," said Cusick.

In March, the Assembly passed legislation establishing New York's state and federal primary election date as the fourth Tuesday of June, thereby ensuring the state's compliance with the federal Military and Overseas Voter Empowerment (MOVE) Act. However, the Senate did not act, thereby forcing New York to hold its state primary in September.