Voters to decide six constitutional amendments
By KELLY FAY
As the Nov. 5 general election approaches, voters have much to consider. Not only will they choose judges, school board members and local leaders (not to mention the next New York City mayor), New Yorkers will also be asked to consider six amendments to the state Constitution affecting a wide array of issues.
The first proposal, and among the most controversial, would allow up to seven Las Vegas-style casinos in upstate New York. Government watchdog groups have contested the language used in the referendum, which asks for a constitutional amendment that would "allow the Legislature to authorize and regulate up to seven casinos for the legislated purposes of promoting job growth, increasing aid to schools, and permitting local governments to lower property taxes through revenues generated."
Opponents of the amendment say the wording is intended to sway voters and increased gambling would lead to a rise in social problems such as crime and gambling addiction. However, business groups such as The Business Council of New York State say the wording is neutral, and the endeavor would increase revenue and jobs in the state. Albany Mayor Jerry Jennings has also come out in favor of proposal one.
Proposal two would allow additional credit on civil service exams to be applied to veterans who are certified as disabled after being appointed or promoted to a civil service position. Currently, veterans are granted five points of credit towards original appointment and two-and-a-half points towards a promotion on civil service exams. Veterans certified as disabled receive twice as many additional points towards the exams. However, the added credit is currently permitted on a one-time-only basis. Therefore, a veteran certified as disabled after appointment or promotion would not benefit from the additional points afforded them.
Read more at http://www.legislativegazette.com/Articles-Top-Stories-c-2013-10-29-85625.113122-Voters-to-decide-six-constitutional-amendments.html
