New York bill to replace 'mother' and 'father' with gender-neutral terms passes legislature

The New York State Legislature has passed a bill that aims to replace the terms "mother" and "father" in state law with gender-neutral alternatives. The bill, which is now awaiting approval from Governor Kathy Hochul, changes "mother" to "gestating parent" and "father" to "non-gestating parent." The legislation passed the state Senate after previously moving through the Assembly in March. Proponents of the bill argue that it promotes inclusivity, while opponents have criticized it as unnecessary. Governor Hochul stated that she is not yet familiar with the proposal but will review it before making a decision. Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman and Representative Claudia Tenney have publicly opposed the bill, expressing concerns about its implications for family definitions.