New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A08382

Introduced
5/13/25  
Refer
5/13/25  
Refer
1/7/26  
Report Pass
2/10/26  
Refer
2/10/26  
Report Pass
2/25/26  
Engrossed
3/19/26  

Caption

Replaces the terms father, mother, and filiation to gender neutral language.

Impact

The implications of A08382 involve significant shifts in how family law is approached in New York. This bill updates the existing legal framework to align with contemporary values regarding gender and family roles. Supporters argue that this change is essential for promoting equal recognition for all parents, which could lead to more equitable treatment in legal matters such as custody, support, and rights of parents who do not conform to traditional gender roles. Furthermore, this new language may provide clarity within family law, potentially reducing discrimination or bias against non-traditional family units.

Summary

Assembly Bill A08382 aims to amend various laws in New York State by replacing the terms 'father,' 'mother,' and 'filiation' with gender-neutral language such as 'parent' and 'parentage.' This bill reflects a growing movement towards inclusivity and recognition of diverse family structures in legal language. By adjusting the terminology across multiple statutes, including the family court act and the domestic relations law, the bill seeks to ensure that the law is applicable and recognizes all types of parental relationships, whether they arise from marriage, civil unions, or other arrangements.

Contention

While many advocate for this change as progressive and necessary, others may perceive it as unnecessary or potentially confusing. Critics might argue that the traditional terms have been historically understood and that such alterations could complicate established legal precedents. Additionally, concerns may arise on how these changes are communicated to the public and implemented within the legal system, especially for those familiar with existing terminologies. The effectiveness of public awareness campaigns and the legal community's adaptability will play crucial roles in the bill's acceptance and implementation.

Companion Bills

NY S09316

Same As Replaces the terms father, mother, and filiation to gender neutral language.

Previously Filed As

NY S09316

Replaces the terms father, mother, and filiation to gender neutral language.

NY A04006

Relates to the use of moneys received from foreign fire insurance companies by the Bohemia Volunteer Firefighter's Benevolent Association, and to modernization of certain language by making such language gender neutral.

NY S07162

Relates to the use of moneys received from foreign fire insurance companies by the Bohemia Volunteer Firefighter's Benevolent Association, and to modernization of certain language by making such language gender neutral.

NY A11181

Relates to the use of certain moneys received by the West Babylon Volunteer Firemen's Benevolent Association and modernization of certain gendered language.

NY SF1277

Updating contract terminology to gender-neutral terms

NY SB733

Constitutional Officers – Gender–Neutral Language

NY HF676

Cohabitation contract terminology updated to gender-neutral terms.

NY A01211

Directs the office of children and family services to establish a center for fatherhood initiatives to issue grants to initiatives regarding the promotion and advancement of fatherhood, including but not limited to all underserved fatherhood groups to help expand opportunities to improve parenting knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy.

NY HB701

"Fatherhood Begins at Conception Act"; create.

NY HB880

"Fatherhood begins at Conception Act"; create.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.