October 9, 2025
Democracy Is Our Business
Citizens Union and Citizens Union Foundation are committed to reforming New York City and State government by fostering accountability, accessibility, transparency, honesty and the highest ethical standards
Checks and Balances
Preventing abuses of power through co-operation and mutual oversight strengthens government accountability.
Highlights:
1923
Home rule for NYC achieved, giving local power thanks to Citizens Union’s advocacy
1959
CU leads effort that results in Robert Moses' resignation from city posts.
2009
CU supports Governor’s appointment of Lieutenant Governor to break Senate deadlock
Recent Action on Checks and Balances
Statements
February 13, 2025
Statement from Citizens Union on FEMA’s Seizure of NYC Funds
December 13, 2024
Statement from Citizens Union on Mayor Adams’ Announcement of a New Charter Revision Commission
November 7, 2024
Statement from Citizens Union on New York Voters Passing Proposition 1, Citywide Ballot Questions 2-5 and Rejecting Proposition 6
Bill Memos
February 3, 2025
Memo of Support for S590 (Krueger)/A3665 (Simone), Charter Revision Process Reform
March 11, 2025
Group memo of support: Council Resolution on Charter Commission Reform
October 30, 2024
Testimony on Intro 1088-2024, Establishing a New Charter Revision Commission
June 6, 2024
Testimony on Intro 908-A, expanding advice and consent (before City Council vote)
Testimonies
May 11, 2012
Testimony to the Reports & Advisory Board Review Commission Regarding Proposed Waivers for Reporting Requirements and Task Forces
February 12, 2025
Testimony before the 2025 Charter Revision Commission – Housing and Land Use
April 10, 2025
Testimony before the 2025 Charter Revision Commission – Government Reform April Hearing
June 21, 2024
Testimony before the 2024 Charter Revision Commission – Public Safety Hearing
Visit Citizens Union's Library for insights on Checks and Balances.