New York Bill Aims to Change Parental Terminology
New York Governor Kathy Hochul faces a significant push from the Democratic Party to alter the traditional use of parental terms in state laws. This proposal would see the terms “mother” and “father” removed and replaced, though not with the expected terms like “pregnant parent” or “non-pregnant parent.”
The focus is on changing “paternity” to “parenthood,” as part of a broader attempt to update various child custody, domestic relations, and education laws. This recent bill has passed through both the state Senate and Assembly and is now awaiting the governor’s approval.
The bill’s proponents argue that such changes promote “inclusivity.” As Father’s Day nears, however, critics are voicing their discontent. Jonathan Turley, a constitutional law professor, commented on social media, mocking the bill as nonsensical and suggesting it could engender public mockery. He jokingly anticipated a “Non-Pregnant Parents Day” on June 21st.
Jordon Wells, a pastor and social media influencer from New York, also criticized the initiative, describing it as “pure insanity” and highlighting that it attempts to overturn a longstanding tradition spanning millennia.
While controversial, Hochul has acknowledged that she is still assessing the proposal. She mentioned a reluctance to comment on pending bills, stating that a comprehensive review is necessary before making decisions.
Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman weighed in, expressing his disapproval of the proposed changes and stating his intent to uphold traditional familial titles. “In Kathy Hochul’s ‘New York,’ ‘mommy’ is now defined as ‘expectant parent,’” he remarked, emphasizing his commitment to defending the terms “mom” and “dad.”
U.S. Representative Claudia Tenney also criticized the developments, remarking on the irony of a party unable to define women attempting to rewrite parental terms in state law. She pointed out that only in Albany would such implications about “mom” and “dad” become controversial.
