Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 17, 2026, as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Constitution Day and Citizenshi

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jim Tedisco

The bill urges the Governor to proclaim September 17, 2026, as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day in New York, aligning state observance with the national recognition.

ADOPTED

Bill Summary: J 2213 (2025-2026) – Memorializing Governor to Proclaim Constitution Day and Citizenship Day

Purpose and intent

The bill is a memorial resolution urging Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 17, 2026, as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day in New York State.

It aligns New York’s observance with the federal recognition of Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, observed in conjunction with the national observance on September 17.

Key provisions and changes

Recommends, not mandates, that the Governor issue a proclamation declaring:

September 17, 2026, as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day in New York State.
The observance should be in conjunction with the national Constitution Day and Citizenship Day.

The resolution cites the historical significance of Constitution Day (anniversary of the 1787 signing) and Citizenship Day (originating as “I am an American Day” in 1940; moved to September 17 and renamed in 1952; later revised to Constitution Day and Citizenship Day in 2004).

Highlights New York’s role in naturalization, noting that New York ranks second in the nation for the number of people naturalized by state of residence and accounts for more than 12% of national naturalizations, per USCIS data.

Expresses the Legislature’s support for welcoming naturalization ceremonies and new citizens nationwide, emphasizing ongoing commitment to the U.S. Constitution.

Who or what would be affected

The primary effect is ceremonial and symbolic:

The Governor would issue a proclamation designating September 17, 2026, as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day in New York.

The resolution itself is a statement of sentiment and does not create new statutory requirements or funding.

Educational, cultural, and civic organizations in New York may reference or plan activities around the proclaimed day.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Legislative history:

Referred to Finance on May 22, 2026.
Reported to Calendar for consideration and adopted on May 27, 2026.

If signed by the Governor, the proclamation would be issued for September 17, 2026.

The resolution includes a directive to transmit a copy to Governor Hochul.

Additional context

The resolution frames Constitution Day and Citizenship Day as an opportunity to education about American history and the founding principles of the United States.

It acknowledges the diverse origins of New York’s residents and the ongoing naturalization process that contributes to the state’s demographic and civic landscape.

Bottom line

This bill is a ceremonial measure urging the Governor to proclaim September 17, 2026, as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day in New York, aligning state observance with national recognition and highlighting New York’s role in welcoming new citizens.