UMVA has learned that a highly contentious bill has been sent to Governor Kathy Hochul's desk for final approval, sparking intense debate across New York State.
The legislation, which recently passed in the state Senate, aims to replace traditional terms like "mother" and "father" with more "inclusive" language in state child custody and parental laws. If approved, "mother" would become "gestating parent," "father" would become "non-gestating parent," and "paternity" would become "parentage."
This dramatic shift in language has been met with fierce resistance from critics, who argue that the change is unnecessary and part of a broader effort to erode traditional family values. The bill's proponents, however, claim that the new language would promote greater inclusivity and sensitivity.
Governor Hochul has promised to review the bill, but has yet to take a public stance on the issue. With the legislative session having ended for the year, Hochul has until the end of the year to make a decision on the bill's fate.
The bill's passage has already sparked a heated reaction from Republican leaders, including gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman. Blakeman has taken to social media to express his outrage, declaring that he will "stand up for moms and dads against this insanity" if elected.
Rep. Claudia Tenney has also weighed in on the issue, expressing her dismay at the bill's passage. "The party that can’t define a woman is now rewriting New York law to erase mothers and fathers," she said.
The controversy surrounding the bill raises fundamental questions about the role of language in shaping our understanding of family and identity. As the bill awaits Governor Hochul's decision, one thing is clear: the fate of traditional family values in New York State hangs in the balance.
