New York State Senator Monica R. Martinez Introduces Bill S.8551 to Create A Statewide Referendum Allowing Public to Vote on Legislation

(PATCHOGUE, NY): Today, New York State Senator Monica R. Martinez introduced bill S.8551, legislation which would create a statewide referendum process to allow a statewide vote on legislatively referred legislation. 

“For too long, we have argued that civic participation should be a part of the legislative process. This legislation, similar to a constitutional amendment or a bond vote, puts the ability to vote on a potential statute into the hands of the citizens of our state. We are allowing our communities to become part of the process and be involved in many of the laws which will affect everyday lives. Now, more than ever, it has become apparent we must be transparent and inclusive of our residents in discussions of issues and the legislative process,” said Senator Monica R. Martinez. 

This legislation would only allow citizens to vote on proposed legislation once it has been referred by the Legislature. Twenty-six other states allow for referendums or ballot initiatives. New York must encourage civic participation by allowing voters to vote on statutes that affect their lives.