Court Upholds Constitutionality of New York Voting Rights Act in Nassau County Gerrymandering Case

NEW YORK – Last week, in an order delivered after oral arguments in New York Communities for Change v. Nassau County, the New York State Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the New York Voting Rights Act (NYVRA).

In response, the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU), American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), LatinoJustice PRLDEF, and Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund (AALDEF) issue the following statement:

“With this decision, the Court rightly upheld the constitutionality of the New York Voting Rights Act — solidifying the power and fortitude of this landmark law.”

“From protecting all New Yorkers against voter intimidation and racial vote dilution to expanding language assistance, the NYVRA is one of the strongest, most comprehensive voting rights laws in the nation. We are confident that there is no question in its constitutionality — and we’re gratified that the Court agrees.”

“Black, Latino, and Asian voters in Nassau County have been wrongfully denied a fair opportunity to have their voices heard at the ballot box, undermining their electoral power and ability to hold the government accountable. It’s unacceptable, unfair voter dilution that must be stopped.”

“As this case continues, we will fight discrimination and ensure fair, equitable representation for all voters in Nassau County.”

“New York is stronger when everyone has an equal opportunity to vote.”

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In this decision, the Court affirmed that the NYVRA requires equal opportunity in electoral systems, not race-based preference for one group of voters over another. Read more in the decision here. Steptoe LLP is also an involved party in this litigation.