Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 15, 2026, as Peace Officers Memorial Day in the State of New York

2025 Regular Session

Ask Governor Hochul to proclaim May 15, 2026 as Peace Officers Memorial Day in New York.

ADOPTED

Summary of Bill: Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 15, 2026, as Peace Officers Memorial Day in the State of New York

Purpose and intent

The bill is an Assembly Resolution (A. Res. No. 1360) sponsored by the Rules Committee (Giglio) in the New York State Assembly.

Its core purpose is ceremonial: to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to officially proclaim May 15, 2026, as Peace Officers Memorial Day in New York State.

The resolution frames the observance as a recognition of the service and sacrifice of peace officers who protect communities and democracy, and who may be fallen or disabled in the line of duty.

Key provisions and changes

The resolution memorializes the Governor to issue an official proclamation designating May 15, 2026, as Peace Officers Memorial Day within New York State.

It situates the observance within a broader national context, noting the origin of Peace Officers Memorial Day (President John F. Kennedy’s 1962 proclamation designating May 15) and highlighting related nationwide observances and events (e.g., Candlelight Vigil and activities organized by law enforcement memorial organizations).

The resolution acknowledges and honors the service, loyalty, and dedication of law enforcement officers.

Who/what would be affected

Governor of New York: Encouraged to issue an official proclamation recognizing May 15, 2026, as Peace Officers Memorial Day.

Peace officers and their families: The resolution references and honors those who have served, been killed, or been disabled in the line of duty.

Public and communities in New York: The designation fosters awareness and remembrance within the state.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Adopted by the New York State Assembly on May 14, 2026, after referral and calendaring steps.

The resolution requests transmission of engrossed copies to:

The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund
Concerns of Police Survivors
Fraternal Order of Police

The observable action accomplished: the Assembly adopted the resolution (as of the action history, ADOPTED on 2026-05-14; referred to calendar on 2026-05-13).

Observations

This measure is symbolic and ceremonial, aimed at prompting an official state proclamation rather than creating new statutory obligations, funding, or regulatory changes.

It aligns New York with the national observance of Peace Officers Memorial Day and supports recognition of law enforcement personnel who have served and sacrificed.