New York Proposition 1

Everything You Need to Know

Did you know there’s a back to your ballot? Many voters across the country miss the opportunity to vote on influential measures on their ballot’s reverse. 

In New York State, a divisive measure is up for voting this November. Proposition 1, or Amendment to Protect Against Unequal Treatment, is an amendment to the New York State Constitution bringing equal protection under the law to many groups. Currently, the NYS Constitution prevents discrimination based on “race, color, creed or religion”. Proposition 1 would extend this protection based on “ethnicity, national origin, age, disability or sex including sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes and reproductive healthcare and autonomy.”  

Prop 1 has been passed by the state legislature, but now must be passed by the citizens of New York to become law. 

There are many misconceptions surrounding Prop 1. If you’ve spent any time off campus, you have likely seen them displayed on lawn signs around the North Country. First, many believe that this amendment will allow children to medically transition their gender without parental consent. This is not true. Minors are considered differently under law than legal adults, meaning that minors can be limited in ways that adults are not. Prop 1 does not change any current laws that require parental consent for medical care to minors.  

A second misconception is that Prop 1 will allow non-US citizens to vote. In the words of state Senator Liz Krueger, “False. This will not give them citizen rights. Those can only be provided through the federal government.”  

A third misconception is that Prop 1 will allow boys to play on girls’ sports teams in middle and high schools. Again, not true. Current state and federal laws already allow students to play on sports teams that match their gender identity. Prop 1 will make no changes to those laws.  

On the other hand, Prop 1 WILL enshrine more rights for individuals and provide equal protection under the law to all people, including traditionally marginalized groups. Additionally, Prop 1 codifies the right to an abortion, birth control and IVF, meaning no laws can be passed to ban them in NYS. While many New Yorkers may already feel they receive these protections, Prop 1 will legally ensure that they are available.  

However, and wherever you vote, remember to flip your f**king ballot.