Following the New York State Court of Appeals’ ruling on Local Law 11 of 2022, Speaker Adrienne Adams released the following statement.

“With Local Law 11 of 2022, the Council sought to strengthen our city’s democratic process and increase civic engagement by enfranchising the hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers who pay taxes and contribute to our communities but are unable to make their voices heard in local elections. From the outset, this case presented complex legal questions regarding the State Constitution, Election Law, and the Municipal Home Rule Law. We appreciate the majority’s affirmation that the local law did not need to be passed by referendum, but we disagree that the State Constitution bars municipalities from expanding the local franchise to noncitizens as noted by Justice Rivera in her dissent.

“While we are disappointed with today’s overall ruling, we respect the judiciary’s role in our democracy to make these decisions. The Council, as always, will continue to support and protect our immigrant community members.”

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