PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. (WCAX) – Voters in New York will decide if they want to amend the state’s Constitution this year, by adding additional protections against discrimination for things like disabilities, reproductive health care and gender-affirming care.
Race, creed, color and religion are the only protected categories. Ballot Initiative Proposition 1 looks to add eight more protections to New York’s constitution, which include disabilities, age, sex, reproductive health care and autonomy.
“That’s so important that we do not lose the hard work that people have come before us have done and that we can live in a state that values us as people,” said Kelly Metzgar with Adirondack North Country Advocacy and Education.
Metzgar says the proposal would enshrine laws that are already on the books. “As a transgender person the ability to even live without discrimination is so important. We just want to live our authentic lives. It is no one’s business but ourselves,” she says.
Jerika Manning with the Clinton County Republican Committee says she takes issue with how the proposition is being presented to voters.
“The wording is so vague that it opens up so many different concerns that the right has, that I have personally and that the Republican Party has of where that can go and how far those rights can go, whether they can apply to noncitizens or they are removing parental rights,” said Manning.
David Souliere with City of Plattsburgh Republicans says he believes the measure isn’t needed.
“Any law that contradicts the federal government, the federal government would override regardless. So, I am not really seeing where the protection would exist there. So, I really think it is just a way to get key talking points on the ballot during a presidential election year,” said Souliere.
But for some voters in Plattsburgh, the proposed changes are something they think should be added.
“No matter where they came from or what gender they are or want to be, it should all be covered because we are all in this great United States,” said Plattsburgh resident Oliver Ray.
“Again, goes back to being pro-choice. I mean, who are we to say what they want to be, what they want to do, it should all be protected,” said Plattsburgh resident Nathan.
