We believe that the terms "mother" and "father" carry enduring legal, cultural, and faith-based significance and should remain recognized in New York law. 

Dear Governor Hochul,

We, the undersigned citizens and residents of New York, respectfully urge you to act according to your convictions and oppose Senate Bill S9316.

Supporters of this legislation argue that it is intended to modernize the language used in New York law. However, we are concerned that replacing the terms "mother" and "father" diminishes the significance of these foundational family relationships. These words are more than legal labels; they describe unique roles and bonds within families that have long been recognized and valued in our society.

We believe it is possible to recognize and respect diverse family arrangements without removing the terms "mother" and "father" from New York law. If alternative terminology is preferred in certain circumstances, accommodations can be made without eliminating language that reflects the experiences and values of many New York families.

As citizens, we believe that traditional family structures should continue to be acknowledged and respected in our laws. The terms "mother" and "father" hold deep cultural, social, and personal significance for countless families across our state. Preserving these terms does not prevent the recognition of other family arrangements; rather, it ensures that longstanding and meaningful family relationships continue to be recognized in law.

Many of us are also people of faith who believe that the family unit, consisting of a mother and a father, reflects God's design for the family and serves as a foundational building block of society. We believe that mothers and fathers each play a unique and irreplaceable role in the lives of children and in the strength of our communities. For this reason, we are concerned by efforts to remove these terms from New York law.

For these reasons, we respectfully ask that you oppose Senate Bill S9316 and preserve the terms "mother" and "father" in New York law.

Thank you for your consideration and for your service to the people of New York.

Respectfully submitted,