New York’s Highest Court Backs Law Shifting Local Elections
Albany,NY – New York’s Court of Appeals on Thursday upheld a state law moving local government elections to even-numbered years,a change opponents argued would diminish voter turnout. The decision concludes a legal challenge brought by several counties seeking to block the measure.
The law, enacted last year, aims to align local elections with presidential and midterm election cycles, proponents say, to boost participation and reduce the costs associated with holding separate odd-year elections. Onondaga and nassau counties led the lawsuit against the state, arguing the law infringes on local control and potentially disenfranchises voters. Attorneys for both counties did not promptly respond to requests for comment following the ruling.
Suffolk county Executive Edward P. Romaine, whose county also contested the law, indicated in May that further legal challenges are possible. “I’m very concerned about the Court of appeals, and I also believe there are federal issues with this that affect our rights,” Romaine said. “So even if we do not prevail … this is a battle that will continue.”
The counties now have the option to appeal the decision to the U.S. Supreme Court or to file a federal lawsuit.
State Democrats are also considering a constitutional amendment to eliminate odd-year elections altogether for local offices. Such a change would require approval by the state Legislature in two successive two-year sessions – the next potential vote being in 2027 – and then a statewide voter referendum. State Senator James Skoufis already sponsors legislation to initiate this process.
“Doing so will eliminate the need to administer any odd-year elections in the state and save hundreds of millions of tax dollars every two years,” Skoufis stated. The next legislative session is scheduled to begin in january.
