Term Limits: The fight continues

As you've probably heard by now, New York City Council voted to extend term limits for city
officials. The controversial vote, which has been heavily criticized by Democracy for NYC and other good
government groups, reverses two referendums approved by voters in the
1990's.

“We’re all gearing up for a herculean fight,” said Norman Siegel, a civil liberties lawyer. Last week, he and 16 other lawyers and academics met at a law firm in downtown Manhattan to brainstorm, debate and define the best legal strategy to fight the term limits change.

Already, two lawsuits challenging the decision have been filed. They charge that the City Council's vote violates conflict of interest laws and represents a breach of voters' civil rights and due-process rights. Prior to the bill's passage, two-thirds of the current City Council members, four borough presidents, the comptroller, public advocate and mayor were slated to lose their seats at the end of 2009.

Among the many affected by this action are more than 150 declared candidates for City Council and other municipal offices in 2009.  Many of these individuals have already invested significant time and financial resources in preparation for these previously open races.

Democracy for NYC members overwhelmingly opposed this action by the City Council to legislate and overturn of the people's decision. Plans are underway to join this fight to restore democracy to NYC.