What do you mean by "resident"? Who will benefit from this campaign? All New York City residents of voting age would be granted the right to vote by this legislation without regard to immigration status. Allowing immigrants greater civic and political engagement would better ensure that elected officials in New York City represent the needs of ALL of their constituents. All New Yorkers would benefit from a more representative City government.

Is resident voting unconstitutional? Nothing in either the U.S. or the New York State constitution prevents immigrants from voting. Only the New York State Election Law needs to be changed.

Is resident voting administratively possible? In parts of Maryland residents already vote in local elections. Legislatures in San Francisco and Washington, DC are considering similar measures. We know that it can be done cheaply and easily here in New York City because everyone with a child in the public school system could vote in school board elections before school boards were disbanded in 2004.

Isn't there already legislation in New York State? There are two voting rights bills in the State Assembly, but both apply only to Legal Permanent Residents. This coalition will support legislation that is broad based and inclusive. There is currently no voting rights legislation in the City Council.

Is resident voting politically possible? Yes. Several members of the New York City Council and the New York State Assembly support resident voting rights. The Coalition represents a large number of organizations, including several unions, which together represent thousands of New York City residents. With a broad coalition movement we can be successful!

If immigrants get the right to vote, would they still be motivated to become citizens? There are many reasons that individuals seek citizenship. Only U.S. citizens can vote in federal elections, be granted a U.S. passport, or be eligible for certain government benefits. In fact, politically engaged immigrants who have the right to vote will be more likely to seek citizenship.

How can I, or my organization, get involved? To endorse the campaign to expanding voting rights, or to get involved with this issue, please contact Cheryl Wertz, the Director of Government Access at New Immigrant Community Empowerment (NICE) at 718-205-8796 or click HERE.