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Dems in NYS Assembly Call for Inclusion of Non-Citizens in ERA

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Democrats in New York’s legislature are proposing to update the state constitution to include non-citizens in the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). The revision would work to offer legal protection to illegal immigrants. “Equality of Rights shall not be denied or abridged because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, marital status, age, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, physical or mental disability …” states the amendment, which is being pushed by Senator Liz Krueger (D-Manhattan) and Assemblywoman Shelley Mayer (D-Westchester). The “protection against discrimination … is needed to ensure an inclusive society with equal opportunity for personal fulfillment and respect for everyone in New York in all their diversity,” continues the amendment.

The proposed addition of the word “citizen” into the ERA clause is stirring plenty of controversy. Especially towards Assemblywomen Mayer, who is running in the special election on April 24, for the available Westchester Senate seat. Running against her is former Rye Councilman Julie Killian, a Republican who opposes the bill. “Shelley Mayer and her radical New York City allies are so out of touch with the values of hard-working Westchester families they want to rewrite the Constitution to protect people who are here illegally while leaving our military heroes who are willing to fight and die for this country to fend for themselves,” said Scott Reif, campaign spokesman for the Senate GOP. “There’s no better illustration of their misplaced priorities and why it would be such a mistake to hand them total control of our entire state government,” continued Reif.

Sen. Krueger maintains the proposal does not bestow rights on the non-citizens or change their status under federal law, nor entitle them to receive government benefits. “We shouldn’t discriminate against someone who is a human being in New York State. Under any scenario. Whether or not you have citizenship,” Krueger clarifies. Krueger also said she would be open to adding “military status” to the measure.

As reported by the NY Post, the Democratic-run Assembly is expected to pass the ERA amendment. State Attorney General Schneiderman has already voiced his approval. Still, the measure will undoubtedly stall in the Senate, for as long as Republicans can hold on to their narrow majority.

By: Hellen Zaboulani

 

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