The New York State Court of Appeals has unanimously struck down a law allowing noncitizens to vote in municipal elections, citing a violation of the state Constitution. The legislation had permitted legal permanent residents and qualified noncitizens to participate in local elections, aligning with public contributions through taxes. Despite acknowledging the law's intentions, the court emphasized the Constitution's definitive stipulation on citizenship for voting rights. The ruling upholds the integrity of the state's electoral system while avoiding complicating issues of local governance authority. It reflects ongoing tensions around voting rights and representation for immigrant communities in New York.
The state constitution clearly states that only US citizens can vote in elections in New York state. Whatever the future may bring, the New York Constitution as it stands today draws a firm line restricting voting to citizens, Wilson wrote in a 36-page decision.
We respect the court's ruling. While it struck down the law, the court sided with Mayor Eric Adams' administration in ruling that it did not violate the city's Municipal Home Rule Law.
The law aimed to give noncitizens who pay taxes and contribute to well-being of their communities a say in local elections. However, the law was almost immediately challenged by a group of mostly Republican elected officials.
The 6-to-1 decision by the New York State Court of Appeals found that the law should be voided because it violates the state Constitution.
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