New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S09764

Introduced

4/6/26

Refer

4/6/26

Caption

Provides that the judge shall not prohibit a parent from undergoing gender reassignment.

Impact

If enacted, S09764 would have significant implications for custody cases in New York State. The bill aims to eliminate biases that may influence court decisions against parents based on their gender identity or expression. Proponents argue that this law would foster a more equitable and fair judicial environment, ensuring that custody determinations are rooted purely in the child's best interests rather than prejudices against non-conforming gender identities.

Summary

Bill S09764, introduced in the New York Senate, seeks to amend the domestic relations law concerning custody decisions made by courts. The key provision of this bill is that it explicitly prohibits courts from considering a parent's sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression when determining the best interests of the child during custody hearings. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that a court cannot prohibit a parent from undergoing gender reassignment, thereby enhancing protections for gender-diverse individuals within the family law context.

Conclusion

Overall, S09764 represents a progressive shift in New York's approach to family law, reflecting broader societal changes toward acceptance of gender diversity. Its passage could serve as a landmark decision in protecting the rights of parents undergoing gender reassignment while reaffirming a commitment to non-discrimination in the legal treatment of all individuals regardless of gender identity.

Contention

Opposition to Bill S09764 could arise from concerns regarding the impact of unrestricted gender identity considerations on child welfare and familial structures. Critics may argue that the bill undermines traditional values and the discretion that judges currently have in evaluating custody situations. The debate may revolve around whether removing these considerations leads to optimal outcomes for children, with opponents raising questions about the potential influence of a parent's gender identity on family dynamics.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY S07451

Provides that the judge shall not prohibit a parent from undergoing gender reassignment.

NY S09103

Provides that gambling upon the results of any political election shall be prohibited.

NY S08890

Provides that if a defendant dies when they have a pending appeal, such appeal shall be dismissed and the trial court's judgment shall remain in effect.

NY A10035

Provides that if a defendant dies when they have a pending appeal, such appeal shall be dismissed and the trial court's judgment shall remain in effect.

NY S08039

Prohibits hospitals, health systems, and health care providers from charging facility fees that are not covered by the patient's health insurance carrier.

NY S08718

Provides that a homeowners' association may include in its declaration, bylaws, or recorded covenants and restrictions a provision expressly prohibiting the use of a no-impact home-based business; provides that any such provision shall be approved by at least ninety percent of the total eligible voters of the homeowner's association; provides that any declaration, bylaws, or recorded covenants and restrictions prohibiting such use shall also include a provision stating that such prohibition may be eliminated by a simple majority vote.

NY A08483

Provides that no entity shall receive fees for services rendered in a veterans' benefits matter until certain notice has been provided to the claimant; provides for the type of notice that shall be provided to claimants; defines terms; makes technical corrections.

NY S09102

Prohibits utilities from charging customers excise tax; provides such tax shall be charged against and paid by the utility.

NY S07131

Establishes standards for the design and construction of all-gender bathrooms in the state and in New York city; provides standards will be permitted in both new construction and existing structures undergoing repair, renovation, or alteration work.

NY S08710

Prohibits utility corporations and municipalities from increasing a bill previously rendered to a small non-residential customer after twelve months from the date service was provided; provides limited exceptions to such prohibition; requires the utility corporation or municipality to provide notice regarding the late billing.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.