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Suffolk County Legislator Proposes Withdrawal from Costly Election Law Lawsuit

Legislator Greg Doroski seeks to end Suffolk County's involvement in a federal lawsuit challenging New York's Even Year Election Law, citing escalating legal costs.

Suffolk County Legislator Greg Doroski (D-Mattituck) has introduced legislation to withdraw the county from a federal lawsuit challenging New York's Even Year Election Law. The law mandates that most local elections occur in even-numbered years. Doroski argues that continuing the litigation, which has already cost taxpayers over $1.65 million, is fiscally irresponsible. The lawsuit, initiated in October 2025, was dismissed by a federal judge on June 29, 2026. Judge Gary R. Brown dismissed the complaint with prejudice, citing a lack of evident injury suffered by the government plaintiffs and expressing concern over the substantial taxpayer funds expended on the case. Doroski's resolution, filed on June 25, 2026, seeks to rescind the county's authorization to participate in the lawsuit and directs the county attorney to withdraw from the pending federal case. He emphasized that taxpayers should not bear the burden of litigation that has already failed in state courts. The resolution also highlights the financial impact on local municipalities. Riverhead Town, for example, withdrew from the lawsuit after incurring at least $207,000 in legal fees. Doroski's proposal aims to prevent further financial strain on Suffolk County taxpayers. The Even Year Election Law, upheld by the New York Court of Appeals, requires most local elections to be held in even-numbered years. The federal lawsuit challenged the law's constitutionality, but with its dismissal, Doroski believes it is prudent for Suffolk County to withdraw and avoid additional legal expenses. The resolution is expected to be discussed in the upcoming county legislature meeting. If passed, it would mark a significant shift in the county's approach to the election law dispute, potentially setting a precedent for other municipalities facing similar challenges.

Why it matters

  • This matters to residents as it addresses the prudent use of taxpayer funds, aiming to prevent further financial strain from prolonged litigation.
  • The withdrawal could expedite the resolution of the election law dispute, bringing clarity to the scheduling of local elections.
  • Doroski's initiative may influence other municipalities to reconsider their involvement in costly legal battles, promoting fiscal responsibility.

ℹ️ Researched and summarized from public reporting. Check the sources below.

Sources

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