S208
An act to amend the State Technology Law — 2023-03-27 · Calendar #430
The New York State Senate passed legislation sponsored by Sen. Cleare to amend the State Technology Law by requiring state websites to use gender-neutral terminology in place of gender-based biased language. The bill passed on a roll call vote 60-2, with only Sens. Ortt and Walczyk voting in opposition. Sen. Webb, speaking in favor, characterized the measure as part of New York's progress toward inclusivity, arguing that current state website language disempowers and excludes New Yorkers accessing state resources, particularly those with diverse gender identities and those in same-sex relationships. Webb said the legislation represents an important update that acknowledges the full spectrum of gender identity. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage.
Passed Senate
Ayes: 60
· Nays: 2
Debate Summary
The bill requires state websites to use gender-neutral terminology instead of gender-based biased language. Sen. Webb argued the legislation represents progress toward inclusivity by removing terminology that disempowers and excludes New Yorkers accessing state resources, particularly those with diverse gender identities and in same-sex relationships. The bill passed with overwhelming support.
Transcript Mentions
These votes were extracted from the floor transcript by AI. NYS Senate roll calls are read in full, but AI extraction may not capture every senator — so this list is incomplete and skews toward named dissenting votes. Use the Official API Data table above for the complete roll call.
| Senator | Vote | Party |
|---|---|---|
| Webb | aye | Democrat |
| Ortt | nay | Republican |
| Walczyk | nay | Republican |