November/December 2021 Issue
October 25, 2021

Local unions can sway local elections

Source: NYSUT United
flip your ballot
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This year’s general elections on Nov. 2 are primarily for local offices. But that doesn’t mean they are insignificant. In local races local unions can have the biggest impact on the outcome.

“When a local union can get close to 100 percent of its members to vote for candidates who support the union agenda, especially in local races, it can make all the difference,” said NYSUT President Andy Pallotta.

“Know who your local union is backing, VOTE and help other supporters get out to vote,” he said.

Early voting in New York runs Oct. 23–31. Check with your county board of elections for details on times and polling locations.

Ballot proposals in a nutshell

Voters in New York State are asked to consider the following proposals on the back of their ballots. Election Day is Nov. 2, and early voting continues through Sunday, Oct. 31.

When you go to the polls this year, make sure you FLIP YOUR BALLOT to vote on the five proposals on the back.

NYSUT supports voting YES on initiatives #1, #3 and #4 this year, which relate to redistricting and improved voter access.

Here's a summary of all five proposals. More info here.

Ballot Proposal 1: Amending the Apportionment and Redistricting Process

This proposed constitutional amendment would freeze the number of state senators at 63, amend the process for the counting of the state’s population and amend the manner of drawing district lines for congressional and state legislative offices.

Ballot Proposal 2: Right to Clean Air, Clean Water, and a Healthful Environment

The proposed amendment would establish clean air and water and a healthful environment as a civil right for each person in the state.

Ballot Proposal 3: Eliminating the 10-Day-Advance Voter Registration Requirement

The proposed amendment would delete the requirement for a citizen to be registered to vote at least 10 days before an election.

Ballot Proposal 4: No-Excuse Absentee Ballot Voting

The proposed amendment would end the requirement that an absentee voter must be unable to appear at the polls by reason of absence from the county or illness or physical disability.

Ballot Proposal 5: Increasing the Jurisdiction of the New York City Civil Court

The proposed amendment would allow the court to hear claims up to $50,000 instead of the current limit of $25,000.