New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S00333

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Removes the phrase E pluribus unum from the arms of the state and the state flag.

Summary

Bill S00333 proposes to amend the state law regarding the description of the arms of the state and the state flag by removing the phrase 'E pluribus unum' from the official motto. The bill seeks to update the state flag description to reflect this change, while maintaining the existing design elements and colors of the flag and arms. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage, but it stipulates that existing flags and arms printed prior to the effective date do not need to be replaced.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will officially alter the state law to exclude the phrase 'E pluribus unum' from the state arms and flag. This change will affect all official representations of the state flag and arms moving forward, but will not require any immediate action regarding existing flags. The removal of this motto may also have implications for how the state is perceived in terms of its values and identity, as this phrase has historical significance in American culture.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S00333 appears to be mixed, with some support for the removal of the phrase as a step towards modernizing state symbols, while others express concern that this change may overlook the historical context and significance of the motto. There has been no recorded voting history or committee discussions available to provide further insight into the legislative sentiment.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the historical significance of the motto 'E pluribus unum', which translates to 'Out of many, one', and its role in representing unity in diversity. Supporters of the bill argue for a more contemporary representation of state identity, while opponents may view the removal of the motto as an unnecessary alteration of a traditional symbol. The debate may also touch on broader themes of state identity and values.

Companion Bills

NY A05088

Same As Removes the phrase E pluribus unum from the arms of the state and the state flag.

Previously Filed As

NY A05088

Removes the phrase E pluribus unum from the arms of the state and the state flag.

NY SB537

Education; schools that receive state funds from displaying any flag other than the flag of the United States or the flag, coat of arms, or state emblem of the State of Georgia; prohibit

NY HB538

Alabama Coat of Arms; revised

NY SB1006

Maryland State Flag Protection Act

NY HCR51

To direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities that have not been authorized by Congress.

NY HCR68

To direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from Venezuela that have not been authorized by Congress.

NY HR0268

A resolution to call on the United States Congress to adopt a measure directing the President of the United States to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran and call on the President of the United States to remove the United States from this conflict.

NY HB3583

To amend title 4, United States Code, to ensure that a funeral honors detail recites the 13 Folds of Honor when presenting a flag of the United States in connection with the death of a member of the Armed Forces or veteran.

NY SB40

Flags flown, hung, or displayed from a flagpole or the exterior of state and local buildings and eliminating a related administrative rule.

NY AB58

Flags flown, hung, or displayed from a flagpole or the exterior of state and local buildings and eliminating a related administrative rule.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.