New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S03936

Introduced
1/30/25  
Refer
1/30/25  

Caption

Prohibits the name of municipalities and subdivisions thereof to include the word swastika.

Summary

Bill S03936 seeks to amend the general municipal law in New York by prohibiting any municipal corporation or its subdivisions from having names that include the word 'swastika'. Additionally, it mandates that any existing municipal names containing this word must be changed by the governing body of that municipality. The bill aims to eliminate symbols associated with hate and discrimination from public nomenclature, reflecting a commitment to promoting inclusivity and respect within community identities.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would directly impact any municipalities in New York that currently have names containing the word 'swastika', requiring them to undergo a name change process. This change would necessitate legislative action at the local level, potentially involving public hearings or community input, and may also affect signage, documentation, and historical references associated with those municipalities. The bill underscores the state's stance against hate symbols and aims to foster a more inclusive environment.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill S03936 appears to be supportive, as it aligns with broader societal efforts to combat hate speech and symbols. Discussions in committee and among legislators indicate a recognition of the need to address the implications of such symbols in public life. However, there may be some concerns regarding the implications of changing historical names and the administrative burden this may impose on local governments.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from local governments that currently bear names containing the word 'swastika', as they may resist the mandated change due to historical significance or community identity. Additionally, there could be debates regarding the definition of hate symbols and the scope of such legislation, with some arguing for broader protections against hate speech and others advocating for local autonomy in naming decisions.

Companion Bills

NY A00143

Same As Prohibits the name of municipalities and subdivisions thereof to include the word swastika.

Previously Filed As

NY A00205

Prohibits the name of municipalities and subdivisions thereof to include the word swastika.

NY S03345

Prohibits the name of municipalities and subdivisions thereof to include the word swastika.

NY A00143

Prohibits the name of municipalities and subdivisions thereof to include the word swastika.

NY HB2343

Placing swastika on certain property with intent to intimidate; penalty.

NY S10259

Prohibits mobile sports wagering operators, including parent companies or subsidiaries thereof, from being eligible to receive the excelsior jobs program credit.

NY A08529

Replaces instances of the words or variations of the words American Indian with the words Indigenous peoples or a variation thereof.

NY S09541

Requires a collecting officer of taxes to accept payments of tax, including any interest due thereon, rounded to the nearest five cent denomination for taxpayers seeking to pay therefor with legal tender.

NY S09319

Relates to the use of assumed and corporate names by companies in the business of household goods moving; provides that companies may not use the words "mover", "moving", or "relocation service" or any abbreviation or derivative thereof unless approved by the commissioner of transportation.

NY H8007

Provides that minor subdivisions include single family infill subdivisions and establishes procedures for single family infill subdivisions within the subdivision of land chapter of the general laws.

NY S3299

Provides that minor subdivisions include single family infill subdivisions and establishes procedures for single family infill subdivisions within the subdivision of land chapter of the general laws.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.