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S3231

Concurrent Resolution proposing an amendment to Section 1 of Article 2 of the Constitution regarding voting eligibility for 17-year-olds — 2025-06-11 · Calendar #1611

The New York State Senate passed a constitutional amendment resolution that would allow 17-year-olds to vote in primary elections if they will turn 18 before the general election, advancing a measure that proponents say will boost youth civic engagement. The bill, Senate Print 3231 (Calendar 1611), sponsored by Sen. Bailey, passed on a 40-19 vote. Sen. Bailey argued that 21 states already permit such voting, including Mississippi, West Virginia, Nebraska, and Indiana, and that allowing young people to participate in primaries would increase their involvement in the electoral process. He noted that millennials and Gen Z voters will account for half the electorate by 2028 and cited New York City's experience allowing 16-year-olds on community boards, which he said spiked youth engagement. However, Sen. Lanza opposed the measure, expressing concern that it removes a 30-day state residency requirement, potentially allowing non-residents to vote in New York primaries. Lanza said he would have supported the bill if it only addressed the 17-year-old voting gap without eliminating residency protections. The resolution requires approval by the Assembly and ratification by voters before taking effect.
PASSED Ayes: 40 · Nays: 19

Debate Summary

Sen. Bailey argued that allowing 17-year-olds who will turn 18 before the general election to vote in primary elections would increase youth civic engagement, noting that 21 states already permit this practice. Sen. Lanza expressed support for the core concept but opposed the bill due to concerns that it removes the 30-day state residency requirement, potentially allowing non-residents to vote in New York primaries.

Recorded Votes

Recorded votes are predominantly dissenting (nay) votes captured from roll call records.

Senator Vote Party
Ashby nay Republican
Borrello nay Republican
Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick nay Republican
Chan nay Republican
Gallivan nay Republican
Griffo nay Republican
Helming nay Republican
Lanza nay Republican
Mattera nay Republican
O'Mara nay Republican
Oberacker nay Republican
Palumbo nay Republican
Rhoads nay Republican
Rolison nay Republican
Stec nay Republican
Tedisco nay Republican
Walczyk nay Republican
Weber nay Republican
Weik nay Republican

An act to amend the Public Housing Law — 2024-06-06 · Calendar #251

The State Senate passed legislation amending the Public Housing Law on a 40-20 vote, with the bill sponsored by Sen. Hoylman-Sigal. The measure expands access to rent-stabilized housing, though it drew criticism from opponents who argued it fails to implement income-based eligibility requirements. Sen. Martins, voting against the bill, contended that expanding the definition of those entitled to rent-stabilized apartments without means-testing allows wealthy residents to occupy units intended for those with genuine affordability needs. He called for means-testing provisions to ensure apartments go to eligible residents who actually require affordable housing benefits. The bill is set to take effect January 1. Twenty senators voted in opposition, including Ashby, Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Lanza, Martins, Mattera, Murray, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Rolison, Stec, Tedisco, Weber, and Weik.
PASSED Ayes: 40 · Nays: 20

Debate Summary

Sen. Martins opposed the bill, arguing it expands access to rent-stabilized housing without means-testing income eligibility, allowing wealthy residents to occupy apartments intended for those with genuine affordability needs. He advocated for means-testing requirements to ensure apartments go to those who actually qualify and need affordable housing benefits.

Recorded Votes

Recorded votes are predominantly dissenting (nay) votes captured from roll call records.

Senator Vote Party
Ashby nay Republican
Borrello nay Republican
Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick nay Republican
Gallivan nay Republican
Griffo nay Republican
Helming nay Republican
Lanza nay Republican
Martins nay Republican
Mattera nay Republican
Murray nay Republican
O'Mara nay Republican
Oberacker nay Republican
Ortt nay Republican
Palumbo nay Republican
Rhoads nay Republican
Rolison nay Republican
Stec nay Republican
Tedisco nay Republican
Weber nay Republican
Weik nay Republican