Today the New York State Senate unanimously passed a measure (S.3241) sponsored by Senator Simcha Felder that would prohibit the requiring of a permit to sing the National Anthem or recite the pledge of Allegiance anywhere in New York.

“How in the world have some New Yorkers become so politically perverse that simple acts of patriotism must be protected?” said Senator Felder. “It’s a sad statement that we need a law to protect people who want to sing our country’s National Anthem or recite our Pledge of Allegiance.”

“You should not need a permit to show your national pride or your patriotism,” said Senator Marty Golden. “The National Anthem is revered because it conveys our strength, unity and courage. Our National Anthem should be sung freely anywhere, any place at anytime.”

The legislation followed an incident last year when schoolchildren visiting from North Carolina were ordered to cease singing the National Anthem at the 9/11 Memorial in Manhattan.

“My Senate colleagues stood strongly behind this common-sense legislation and I’m hopeful that members of the State Assembly will do the same,” concluded Senator Felder.

(YWN Headquarters – NYC)