Requires that county clerks and sheriffs in the city of New York be elected

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Andrew J. Lanza says this is needed

Unlike the rest of New York State, county clerks and the sheriff in New York city are appointed positions and are not selected by the voting public who reside in such city. Currently, county clerks in the five boroughs of New York, Kings, Queens, Bronx and Richmond counties are appointed by the Appellate Divi- sion of the Supreme Court. The First Department appoints county clerks to New York and Bronx counties. The Second Department appoints county clerks to Kings, Queens and Richmond counties. Additionally, the New York City Sheriff is appointed by the Mayor. This Constitutional amendment would change this method and allow elections, so the people can decide on who should represent them in these important government positions. This measure would empower voters across the City to select their county clerks and sheriff just like all other New York State counties currently do. This amendment does not change the responsibilities of these offices but more importantly, gives New York City residents the power to elect people to these offices, and in doing so, preserve, strengthen and protect our democracy for the people of New York City, our State and future generations.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.