Proposition 1: Proposal aims to amend Article 1, Section 11 of New York State Constitution, but North Country lawmakers have concerns

ALBANY, NY- Election Day is closing in and New Yorkers are reminded to read up on and remember to vote on Proposition 1, which will appear on the back of ballots across the state.

If enacted, Proposition 1 will amend Article 1, Section 11 of the New York Constitution. Section 11 already protects against unequal treatment based on race, color, creed, and religion, but Proposition 1 proposal has aims to also protect against unequal treatment based on ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, and pregnancy outcomes, as well as reproductive healthcare and autonomy, according to state authorities.

***Read up on Proposition 1 here.

Furthermore, the amendment allows laws to prevent or undo past discrimination.

However, North Country lawmakers, including from both the state and federal levels, appear to be skeptical by expressing concerns.

"Proposition 1 would give our hard earned NY taxpayer dollars to illegals, fund sex change operations for minors without parental consent, and force schools to allow men and boys in women and girls sports and bathrooms,” Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21) said in late August.

Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush says he will be voting no, according to his social media accounts, going on to claim “it is NOT what you think.”

In response, those advocating for Proposition 1 say it is a constitutional amendment that puts the power in the hands of New Yorkers, not politicians.

Election Day is Tuesday, November 5, 2024.

Albany, NY Empire Plaza image.