NEW YORK — New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation replacing state law with the English terms”alien” (stranger) and “illegal alien” (undocumented immigrant) to the terms “non-citizen” and “undocumented non-citizen”, respectively.
Legislation S9333, sponsored by Senator Jessica Ramos, calls for changing words in the language used in state government through laws and regulations. That is, replace the terms “alien“And” illegal alien” with the terms “noncitizen” and “undocumented noncitizen” in various state laws, such as the Alcohol Control Act, Banking Act, Cannabis Act, Civil Practice Act and Rules, Civil Rights Act civil law, the law of domestic relations, the law of economic development, the law of education, the law of environmental conservation, among others.
“The literal words used by our government through laws and regulations influence social discourse and immigration policy. Academics and politicians alike have criticized the connotations associated with the term”Alien” in federal and state laws and regulations, synonymous with foreign-born people with criminals and outsiders. These connotations not only dehumanize immigrants who elevate our cultural, civic, and economic lives, but they wield the power in creating laws and norms resulting from legislation and court decisions. Immigrants throughout New York State have found that it strengthens New York’s economy and diversifies social services and cultural life,” reads the description of the new law.
“In conjunction with New York State’s welcoming and inclusive platform on immigration, the terms”Alien “And”illegal alienshould be removed from all state laws. By replacing these terms with “non-citizen” and “undocumented non-citizen,” New York State will match the language expected to be in federal codes and demonstrate respect and humanity to its immigrant population, the document adds.
The law takes effect immediately.
