2021 ballot proposal information

(Updated Oct. 27, 2021)

These five statewide proposals will appear on New York ballots in the 2021 general election. The UFT’s state affiliate NYSUT decided on Oct. 27 to support voting YES on Proposals 1, 3 and 4.

1. Amending the apportionment and redistricting process 
   New York Proposal 1 would revise the process of redistricting for congressional and state legislative seats. The following changes would take place if approved: capping the number of state senators at 63; requiring incarcerated people to be counted at their last address of residence; shortening the deadline for submission of redistricting plans to the state legislature; and revising the vote total needed to adopt redistricting plans when one party controls both legislative houses. NYSUT supports voting YES on Proposal 1 because it allows for a more equitable distribution on representation in both Albany and Washington, D.C.
2. Right to clean air, clean water, and a healthful environment
   New York Proposal 2 would amend the Bill of Rights of the New York Constitution to add the right of each New Yorker to clean air, clean water and a healthful environment. If approved, the amendment would push government officials into ensuring that the environment is given the highest level of protection.
3. Eliminating 10-day advance voter registration requirement
   New York Proposal 3 would repeal the requirement that a citizen be registered to vote at least ten days before an election. If approved, the Legislature will have the power to enact laws permitting citizens to register to vote less than 10 days before an election. NYSUT supports voting YES on Proposal 3 because it allows voters to register closer to Election Day.
4. Authorizing no-excuse absentee voting
   New York Proposal 4 would eliminate a state constitutional rule that says voters must provide a reason, or valid excuse, to vote by absentee ballot. If approved, the amendment would make it easier for voters to vote by mail by doing away with the need for any justification. NYSUT supports voting YES on Proposal 4 because it seeks to remove current restrictions on absentee voting, making no-excuses absentee voting a reality in New York State.
5. Increasing the jurisdiction of the New York City Civil Court
   New York Proposal 5 would change the monetary limit on claims in the city's civil court, which is regulated by the state constitution. If approved, this amendment would increase the scope of the court's jurisdiction from claims of $25,000 or less to claims of $50,000 or less.