The New York Court of Appeals unanimously ruled against a controversial law that would have allowed noncitizens, specifically green card holders, to vote in city elections. The court's 6-1 decision highlighted that the current state constitution explicitly restricts voting to US citizens, effectively ending the hopes of advocates who argued for broader voting rights. While supporters claimed noncitizens contribute to society and should have a say, opponents, including Republican leaders, emphasize the need to improve voter engagement among existing citizens before expanding rights to noncitizens.
The ruling closes the matter in the state's court and dashes hopes by many lefty City Council members and advocates that the city's 800,000 green card holders get a voice in local elections.
With one of the lowest voter turnout rates in the country, our city needs to do more to engage working people who feel shut out of the process.
The opinion states, 'Whatever the future may bring, the New York Constitution as it stands today draws a firm line restricting voting to citizens.'
Supporters had argued that noncitizens here legally should be able to vote because they pay taxes and make contributions to their communities.
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