Assemblyman Kevin Byrne (R,C,I,SAM,ROS-Mahopac), alongside Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay and their Republican colleagues, today rallied to call for increased election integrity and protection from foreign influence. In response to efforts from New York City and other states, including Vermont, that would enable non-citizens to vote in local elections, Byrne has introduced legislation which would amend the state’s Constitution (A.9095), to ensure that “only citizens” shall be entitled the right to vote in New York’s elections.
“It is imperative for the health and continuation of our democracy that we maintain strong, safe, and fair elections,” Byrne said. “One of the hallmark benefits of citizenship has been the exclusive right to vote in our elections. Only citizens of the United States should have that sacred right—not foreign nationals. I am completing a 99 Form to force the bill on the Election Law Committee Agenda this session, and I am calling on the public to express their support for this common-sense amendment by signing our online petition. This amendment deserves a vote on the floor. In the end, as with every constitutional amendment, the voters will have the opportunity to decide its outcome via referendum.”
Assemblyman Byrne represents NY’s 94th Assembly District, which includes portions of Putnam and Westchester counties. Byrne is the ranking minority member of the Assembly Committee on Health, serves as chair of the Assembly Minority Program Committee.