Hate symbols that range from Confederate battle flags to Nazi regalia will be banned from being sold on state property after Gov. Andrew Cuomo approved the measure on Tuesday.
The law builds on efforts to limit the sale of Confederate flags and similar items at fairgrounds, including the state-owned fairground in central New York. The state agriculture and markets commissioner in 2018 previously signed a memo that sought to limit the display of Confederate flags and Nazi imagery by vendors at the fairgrounds.
Such items have been banned by county governments from being sold on local fairgrounds during carnivals or other events.
The ban covers items considered to be "symbols of hate" from being sold at marketplaces on property New York owns. There are some exceptions, including if the images are used in books, museum services, or part of an educational or historical purpose.
“Symbols of hate have no place in our society, let alone on state property," said Sen. Alessandra Biaggi, a Democrat from the Bronx who sponsored the legislation.
"With the signing of my bill, we are drawing a clear line in the sand. By limiting hateful symbols from being glorified on state property, New York will denounce images that represent violence while still acknowledging our nation’s shameful history of oppression. This bill allows New York State to lead by example, and discourage the perpetuation of symbols that do not represent our values of justice and inclusion. Today we say no to hate.”
The measure was part of a package of bills the governor signed into law on Tuesday.