Early voting will begin soon for the fall election cycle, and this year New Yorkers have a number of consequential ballot propositions to consider. I’d like to discuss four of the five ballot proposals which I have had many constituents ask me about.

Proposal 1: Amending the Apportionment and Redistricting Process

What a title. What does this mean? In the simplest of terms, it would significantly bolster New York City’s influence in our state’s representation at the state and federal levels. Notably, this amendment, if approved, will change the redistricting process by considering the residential population in the count. This means non-citizens and, potentially, illegal immigrants could be counted when redrawing districts. Additionally, the proposal would allow for convicts to be counted in their place of last residence rather than where they are currently incarcerated, as they have been for many decades. Overall, this would create more representation for New York City interests over those of upstate.

Proposal 2: Right to Clean Air, Clean Water and a Healthful Environment

Let me start by saying, I support improving the quality of our environment. In particular, I have spent much of my personal time ensuring people have access to the great outdoors of Central New York through my work in maintaining recreational trails in our area. This proposal, however well-meaning and positive-sounding, could create a legal headache for our local communities. The potential for frivolous lawsuits against our municipalities and the threat to our family farmers is way too high for such a vaguely written statement.

Proposal 3: Eliminating Ten-Day Advance Voter Registration Requirement

Our state constitution currently requires a 10-day pre-registration requirement before anyone can vote in an election. This proposal, like a few others on the ballot, threatens the integrity of our elections. The constitution rightfully allows for time for our Boards of Election to verify eligibility. Such a short turnaround from voting registration to actually voting increases the likelihood of abuse from those who wish to interfere with our democratic process.

Proposal 4: Authorizing No-Excuse Absentee Ballot Voting

Lastly, our constitution, as it is now, requires that in order obtain an absentee ballot, a voter must have a legitimate excuse for being unable to vote in person. The two excuses being absence from the county and illness. Absentee voting is, indeed, important, especially for our seniors. However, the most secure form of voting remains voting in person. Voting is a hallowed privilege of our democracy. The further we erode this process the more we put it at threat.

Again, I am sharing my thoughts on these ballot proposals, because I have had so many constituents contact me for my viewpoint. As your legislator, I still highly encourage active participants in democracy. So I encourage you to do your own research. Proposal language for this 2021 ballot is available here for your closer review: https://www.elections.ny.gov/2021BallotProposals.html.

If you have questions or comments on this, or any other state matter, please contact me by calling 607-648-6080 or emailing angelinoj@nyassembly.gov.