The state Constitution currently limits civil courts to hearing and deciding claims up to $25,000. Only the New York State Supreme Court can currently hear and decide claims more than $25,000. This proposal would amend the state Constitution to allow New York City Civil Courts to also hear and decide claims up to $50,000.
This upcoming Election Day, New Yorkers will be voting on several propositions that would amend the New York State Constitution, including Proposition 5 which would expand the jurisdiction of New York City civil courts.
Voters on Tuesday will see the following question: “The proposed amendment would increase the New York City Civil Court’s jurisdiction by allowing it to hear and decide claims for up to $50,000 instead of the current jurisdictional limit of $25,000. Shall the proposed amendment be approved?”
While the first four amendments concern expanding voter registration options and absentee ballots for voting, the natural right to a clean air and environment, and changes to the redistricting process, the fifth proposition concerns the New York City Civil Court and its ability to hear and decide lawsuits of a greater value.
The state Constitution currently limits civil courts to hearing and deciding claims up to $25,000. Only the New York State Supreme Court can currently hear and decide claims more than $25,000. This proposal would amend the state Constitution to allow civil courts to also hear and decide claims up to $50,000.
Receiving unanimous support from state legislators, Proposition 5 was the only amendment to go through the Senate without opposition. The lead sponsor of the bill, Democratic Senator Luis Sepúlveda of the 32nd District justifies Proposition 5 by explaining that it would, “…adequately adjust for inflation, and help to relieve some of the burden placed on New York Supreme Court judges.”
The New York Public Interest Research Group and Citizens Union issued statements in support of Proposal 5.
The jurisdictional limit of the New York City Civil Court was last raised in 1983, when a constitutional amendment changed it from $10,000 to $25,000 to adjust for inflation and reduce the backlog of the State Supreme Court, according to Citizens Union. It is well past time to raise the 35-year-old threshold, supporters, says Citizens Union, to help reduce backlogs and delays, and adjust the current limit for inflation.
