The New York Court of Appeals, the state’s premier judicial authority, issued a ruling on Thursday, halting a controversial law that would have allowed noncitizens to participate in local elections. This decision underscores the current limitations on voter eligibility in New York state.

Details of the Ruling

The law in question, enacted in 2021 by New York City’s predominantly Democratic city council, was aimed at making approximately 1 million noncitizens eligible to vote in municipal elections, including those for mayor and members of the city council. The court’s decision was nearly unanimous, with a 6-1 vote blocking the legislation.

Arguments Against the Law

Proponents of the law articulated that the New York Constitution defines voter qualifications by specifying the right to vote for citizens aged 18 and older—without explicitly denying that right to noncitizens. However, Chief Judge Rowan Wilson articulated a clear interpretation of the state constitution, asserting that it fundamentally restricts voting to U.S. citizens.

Wilson’s opinion highlighted potential implications if the appellants’ reasoning were adopted, suggesting that it could lead to allowing non-adult individuals, such as 13-year-olds, to vote. He emphasized, “The New York Constitution as it stands today draws a firm line restricting voting to citizens,” which underscores the stringent conditions surrounding voter eligibility.

Responses to the Decision

Joe Borelli, a former New York City councilman and a plaintiff in the case, expressed his views following the ruling. He stated, “This has always been an open and shut case, and it’s embarrassing that the city council fought so hard to skirt the law, undermine the Constitution, and weaken the votes of citizens.” Borelli’s comments reflect the concerns regarding constitutional adherence in legislative practices.

Implications for New York City

New York City maintains a sizable non-U.S. citizen population, which accounts for roughly one-third of the adult demographic. The court’s ruling reinforces existing legal interpretations regarding voter qualifications and limits the immediate scope of voting rights for noncitizens in local elections.

Associate Judge Jenny Rivera was the sole dissenting opinion in this ruling, indicating nuanced perspectives on the legal definitions of citizenship and voting rights in New York.