New York’s Top Court to Decide Noncitizen Voting Law

By Y.M. Lowy

New York’s highest court is set to rule on a legal challenge to a 2022 law that would grant noncitizens the right to vote in New York City’s municipal elections. The law, passed by the Democrat-led City Council, would allow noncitizens who’ve been in the city for at least 30 days or are authorized to work in the U.S. to vote in local elections. 

However, it has been blocked by legal challenges from Republicans who argue it violates the state constitution. The city’s lawyers argue that the law falls within the city’s powers and should stand. Republican attorneys claim the state constitution limits voting rights to citizens.

The case could have broad implications for noncitizen voting in the U.S., as several other communities have adopted similar laws. A decision is expected soon.