LA City Council votes to remove noncitizen voting, LAPD measures from November ballot

The Los Angeles City Council voted on Tuesday to remove two ballot measures—one allowing noncitizens to vote in local elections and another expanding police accountability tools—from the November general election, according to a resolution published by the City Council. The decision, which requires a two-thirds majority, passed with 13 votes in favor and 6 against, according to The Los Angeles Times.

What triggered the council’s decision?

The measures, which had been approved by the City Council in July, faced legal and political challenges. A coalition of conservative groups and some city officials argued that the noncitizen voting measure violated state law, which prohibits nonresidents from participating in local elections. The LAPD accountability measure, which would have required the department to publish data on use-of-force incidents, was criticized by police unions as a threat to operational security.

“This decision reflects the need to prioritize legal clarity and community trust,” said Councilmember Paul Krekorian, who supported the removal. “We must ensure that any changes to our electoral process are both lawful and broadly accepted.”

What happens next with the ballot measures?

The removed measures will not appear on the November ballot, but advocates for both proposals have vowed to pursue alternative paths. The noncitizen voting initiative, backed by organizations like the Los Angeles Alliance for Human Rights, may seek a judicial review or a new ballot measure in 2024. The LAPD accountability measure, which had bipartisan support, could be reintroduced as a city ordinance rather than a ballot measure.

“This is a setback, but not a final defeat,” said Maria Gonzalez, a spokesperson for the coalition. “We will continue to fight for policies that protect all residents, regardless of immigration status.”

How does this affect the November election?

The removal reduces the number of ballot measures on the November 2023 general election from 11 to 9. Voters will still decide on issues like affordable housing funding, transit expansions, and public safety reforms. The City Clerk’s Office confirmed that the changes will not impact the election’s timeline or voter registration deadlines.

“The focus now is on ensuring voters have clear information about the remaining issues,” said City Clerk Dean Logan. “We are updating all official materials to reflect the revised ballot.”

Why does noncitizen voting remain a contentious issue?

Noncitizen voting is legal in some U.S. municipalities, including New York City and several California cities, but it remains controversial. Critics argue it undermines the principle of “one person, one vote,” while supporters say it empowers communities by giving undocumented residents a voice in local decisions. In Los Angeles, where over 1 million residents are noncitizens, the debate has intensified amid national discussions on immigration reform.

“This decision doesn’t resolve the underlying questions about representation,” said Dr. Luis Rivera, a political science professor at UCLA. “It’s a temporary pause, but the conversation about inclusive governance will continue.”

What are the implications for police accountability in LA?

The LAPD accountability measure, which had drawn support from progressive lawmakers and community groups, aimed to increase transparency by requiring the department to release annual reports on use-of-force incidents, complaints, and training data. Police Chief Michel Moore has previously acknowledged the need for “greater transparency,” but the measure’s removal leaves existing oversight mechanisms unchanged.

“This was a step toward accountability, but it’s not the end of the road,” said Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell, who opposed the removal. “We must find other ways to ensure the LAPD is held to the highest standards.”

The City Council’s decision underscores the complex interplay between local governance, legal constraints, and public opinion. As advocates regroup and officials prepare for the November election, the outcome of this debate will likely shape the city’s political landscape for years to come.