Assemblyman Christopher S. Friend (R,C-Big Flats) is celebrating a victory for the integrity of New York’s elections following the Court of Appeals' decision to strike down New York City’s noncitizen voting law. The ruling reaffirms that voting is a fundamental right reserved for U.S. citizens as explicitly stated in the New York State Constitution.

The law, initially passed in the final days of former Mayor Bill de Blasio’s administration, faced immediate legal challenges. The Court of Appeals, in a 6-1 decision, dismissed the argument that municipalities could extend voting rights beyond the constitutional definition of citizenship. Chief Judge Rowan Wilson confirmed that “citizen” is not a flexible term open to reinterpretation, but rather a firm requirement for voter eligibility.

“This ruling reaffirms a fundamental truth. The right to vote is a privilege and responsibility of American citizens. Our elections must remain secure, fair and reflective of the voices of those who have met the legal requirements of citizenship. I fully support this decision as a victory for the integrity of our democratic process and the rule of law,” said Friend.