Statement from Senator Liz Krueger on Decision by Conservative Lower Court Judge to Remove ERA from Ballot

“The ruling by a conservative judge in Livingston County, which alleges a procedural misstep in the process for advancing the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), clearly aims to derail a historic advancement for New Yorkers. This decision, based on the supposed absence of an Attorney General’s opinion, grossly misinterprets New York State’s constitutional requirements, and undermines the democratic process. The amendment underwent public debate and was successfully passed by two consecutive Legislatures over a two-year period, as required for a constitutional amendment to be placed on the ballot.

“It is evident that the New York Republican Party is trying to create obstacles to prevent New Yorkers from voting on the ERA this November. The last thing Trump and his New York MAGA operatives want is for New Yorkers to have the opportunity to vote and affirm their support for protecting people from discrimination based on ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, or sex—including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression—under New York’s Constitution. This maneuver is nothing more than a blatant attempt to strip New Yorkers of their right to participate in shaping the future of our state’s civil rights and abortion protections.

“We are undeterred by this setback. We will promptly file an appeal, confident that the Appellate Court will see the baselessness of this ruling and restore the ERA to the November ballot. This amendment is more than mere legislation; it is a guarantee of equal rights for all New Yorkers.

“Our commitment to ensuring that every New Yorker’s voice is heard remains steadfast. The fight for equal rights is far from over, and we will continue to lead the charge to ensure that this crucial amendment is decided on by the voters and not by Donald Trump, Lee Zeldin, or Ed Cox.”