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J 835

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to recognize April 20, 2025, in honor of the 248th Anniversary of the adoption of the first New York State Constitution

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Addabbo and 61 co-sponsors

Urges Gov. Hochul to proclaim April 20, 2025 as the 248th anniversary of New York’s 1777 first Constitution; a ceremonial recognition with educational impact, no funds.

ADOPTED
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · J 835

Summary of Bill J 835

Overview

Bill J 835 is a joint resolution titled: “Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to recognize April 20, 2025, in honor of the 248th Anniversary of the adoption of the first New York State Constitution.” The measure is ceremonial in nature (a resolution) and is designed to urge the Governor to recognize a historical anniversary.

  • Status: ADOPTED
  • Introduced: April 21, 2025
  • Classification: resolution
  • Core purpose: To memorialize the Governor to publicly recognize April 20, 2025, as the 248th anniversary of the adoption of the first New York State Constitution (which was adopted on April 20, 1777).

Key Provisions and Intent

  • Formal recognition: The resolution expresses the Legislature’s desire for the Governor to issue a proclamation or public acknowledgment commemorating the date.
  • Historical significance: It highlights the importance of New York’s first Constitution in establishing the state’s framework and enduring constitutional heritage.
  • Ceremonial language: As a memorializing measure, the text is expected to include Whereas clauses describing the historical context and a Resolved clause urging the Governor to make the recognition.

Note: Being a ceremonial resolution, the bill does not create new laws or allocate funds. Its influence is primarily symbolic and educational, aiming to elevate public awareness of the anniversary.

Affected Parties and Scope

  • Government and public institutions: The Governor’s Office and state agencies would be the primary recipients of the requested proclamation or public acknowledgment.
  • General public and educators: The recognition may be used by schools, libraries, and historical societies to highlight New York’s constitutional history.
  • Legislators: The measure reflects broad legislative support, as evidenced by a large slate of sponsors from various districts.

Timeline and Procedural Details

  • 2025-04-21: Referred to Finance (typical for a memorial resolution as part of the process, though usually no appropriations are involved).
  • 2025-04-29: Reported to calendar for consideration (reiterated in the action log).
  • 2025-04-29: Adopted (final legislative action noted in the record).

Sponsors

The bill has broad sponsorship, with Andrew J. Gounardes listed as the primary sponsor and dozens of cosponsors. The list includes legislators from diverse districts and party affiliations, reflecting cross-chamber consensus on commemorating this historical milestone.

Potential Impact

  • No fiscal impact anticipated from the resolution itself.
  • Sets a formal, public tone recognizing New York’s constitutional heritage.
  • Could prompt a gubernatorial proclamation or public ceremony related to the 248th anniversary, enhancing educational and commemorative opportunities across communities.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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