New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill K00400

Introduced
4/29/25  
Refer
4/29/25  

Caption

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 3, 2025, as Press Freedom Day in the State of New York

Impact

The impact of K00400 is primarily symbolic, as it emphasizes the value of press freedom as a cornerstone of democracy and aims to strengthen civil society's role in promoting transparency and accountability. The bill highlights historical instances of journalists in New York who have lost their lives while performing their duty, underscoring the risks involved in journalism. By declaring a dedicated day to recognize these issues, the bill intends to foster a culture that supports and protects the press.

Summary

Bill K00400 aims to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 3, 2025, as Press Freedom Day in New York State. This bill aligns with the observance of World Press Freedom Day, which celebrates the fundamental principles of freedom of the press and the journalists' crucial role in ensuring government accountability. The resolution seeks to raise awareness about the challenges faced by journalists and media workers, particularly those related to intimidation, harassment, and violence in the course of their work.

Contention

While the bill is largely an affirmation of support for press freedom, it could spark conversations around the current state of media rights and safety in New York and beyond. Advocates for press freedom might see this as a necessary reminder of the ongoing challenges that media professionals face, while critics or skeptics may question the effectiveness of designating a day as a means of addressing the underlying issues of media safety and journalistic integrity.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY K00397

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 3, 2023, as Press Freedom Day in the State of New York

NY K02036

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 3, 2024, as Press Freedom Day in the State of New York

NY J00447

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim February 23, 2023, as Student Press Freedom Day in the State of New York

NY J00875

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 1, 2023, as May Day in the State of New York

NY J02348

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 1, 2024, as May Day in the State of New York

NY J00183

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim March 30, 2023, as Doctor Day in the State of New York

NY K00420

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 3, 2023, as Skilled Trades Day in the State of New York

NY K02088

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 3, 2024, as Skilled Trades Day in the State of New York

NY J00157

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 19, 2023, as Bike to Work Day in the State of New York

NY J02320

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 17, 2024, as Bike to Work Day in the State of New York

Similar Bills

US SR688

A resolution recognizing widening threats to freedom of the press and free expression around the world, reaffirming the vital role that a free and independent press plays in combating the growing threats of authoritarianism, misinformation, and disinformation, and reaffirming freedom of the press as a priority of the United States Government in promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance in commemoration of World Press Freedom Day on May 3, 2024.

US HR1192

Recognizing widening threats to freedom of the press and free expression around the world, reaffirming the vital role that a free and independent press plays in countering the growing threats of authoritarianism, misinformation, and disinformation, and reaffirming freedom of the press as a priority of the United States Government in promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance in commemoration of World Press Freedom Day on May 3, 2024.

HI SB1618

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US SR191

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US HR357

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WV SB216

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WI AB551

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