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A 11428

Names the red-spotted newt/eastern newt the official amphibian of the state of New York

2025 Regular Session

Designates the red-spotted newt/eastern newt as New York's official amphibian, a symbolic designation with immediate effect if enacted.

REFERRED TO GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS
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Bill Summary · A 11428

Overview

  • Bill: A 11428 (New York)
  • Session: 2025-2026
  • Purpose: To designate the red-spotted newt/eastern newt (Notophthalmus viridescens) as the official amphibian of the State of New York
  • Status: Introduced May 15, 2026; referred to the Committee on Governmental Operations

Main Purpose

  • Establish a state symbol by naming the red-spotted newt/eastern newt as New York’s official amphibian.
  • This formal designation is a symbolic gesture intended to recognize the species and its presence within the state.

Key Provisions

  • New Section Created: The bill adds Section 87-a to the state law:
    • § 87-a. State amphibian. The red-spotted newt/eastern newt (Notophthalmus viridescens) shall be the official amphibian of the state of New York.
  • Effective Date: The act would take effect immediately upon enactment.

Who/What Is Affected

  • Official recognition and branding of the red-spotted newt/eastern newt as New York’s official amphibian.
  • No explicit regulatory changes or programmatic mandates are included beyond the designation.
  • Public institutions, educators, and state agencies may reference or promote this symbol in educational and cultural contexts.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduction: May 15, 2026
  • Referral: Referred to the Committee on Governmental Operations
  • Next steps: The bill would need to pass both houses of the New York Legislature and be signed by the Governor to become law.
  • Immediate effect: If enacted, the designation would take effect immediately, per § 2 of the bill.

Potential Implications

  • Symbolic and educational benefits: A formal designation can support educational programs about local wildlife and biodiversity.
  • Public awareness: May spur state and local initiatives highlighting amphibians and their habitats.
  • No funding or regulatory changes are specified in the bill; it does not authorize new programs or budgets.

Summary

Bill A 11428 seeks to officially designate the red-spotted newt/eastern newt (Notophthalmus viridescens) as New York’s official amphibian, with the designation taking effect immediately upon enactment. The measure is largely symbolic and does not outline any accompanying funding, regulatory duties, or programmatic changes. It currently awaits consideration by the Governmental Operations Committee after introduction.

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

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