A group of New York lawmakers is urging residents to vote against Proposition 1, a proposed amendment to the state constitution that would expand protections against discrimination based on factors including gender identity, gender expression, and national origin. In a joint statement, New York Senators Tom O’Mara, George Borrello, and Pam Helming, along with Assembly members Phil Palmesano, Marjorie Byrnes, Chris Friend, and Joseph Giglio, expressed concerns that Prop 1, positioned by proponents as an Equal Rights Amendment, would have far-reaching implications beyond what is described on the ballot.
The amendment, if passed, would add new protected classes under the state’s equal protection laws, with language meant to “dismantle discrimination” on various grounds, including reproductive health autonomy. However, opponents argue that this amendment could allow biological males identifying as female to compete in women’s sports and access women-only spaces, potentially undermining the integrity of Title IX protections.
Critics further allege that the amendment’s phrasing on “dismantling discrimination” might support policies like reverse discrimination and reparations, while the inclusion of “national origin” as a protected class could lead to benefits and voting rights for non-citizens. The proposal, they argue, omits specific wording on abortion access, despite advocates portraying it as a measure to protect reproductive rights.
“The summary presented on the ballot is misleading and doesn’t accurately reflect the amendment’s language,” the legislators stated. They urge voters to review the proposal fully before voting and to “turn over the ballot” to find Proposition 1.
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