Non-Citizens May Now Vote in New York City Municipal Elections

A new law has come into effect today allowing non-citizen residents to vote in New York City elections.

• The approximately 800,000 additional voters enfranchised by the law could significantly influence the makeup of New York City Hall. Non-citizens make up one in nine New York City voting age residents and the first election newly registered voters will be eligible for will be in 2023. Opponents have stated their intention to challenge the law.

• New York City is the first city in the US to grant municipal voting rights to non-citizens and other cities across the US will be watching closely. Although the new legislation will not affect presidential, gubernatorial, or federal Congressional races it is considered a landmark piece of legislation.

• The process of voter registration is scheduled for completion in July. The process will involve the clear demarcation of registration to separate ballots for federal, state, and municipal elections.