Bill Prohibits Sale of ‘Hate Symbols’ in New York

Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a bill that would end the sale of Confederate flags, swastikas or any such symbol of hate on state grounds within New York on Tuesday.  The new bill would also limit any such symbols exposure on state grounds unless it's deemed educational or used in historical context.

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According to the New York Post, the new law will go into effect immediately and because of its nature, some may find it unconstitutional.  Regardless of one's individual view of the Confederate flag, swastikas or anything else New York State deems "symbols of hate," according to the report, the Governor admits that new law most likely needs “certain technical changes.”

Those "changes" would allow the new bill to implement a ban to these types of symbols even if doing so it technically infringes on our First Amendment Right of free speech.

According to the Post, the Governor explained his reason for the new bill adding, “By limiting the display and sale of the confederate flag, Nazi swastika and other symbols of hatred from being displayed or sold on state property, including the state fairgrounds, this will help safeguard New Yorkers from the fear-installing effects of these abhorrent symbols.”

Floyd Abrams a First Amendment lawyer told the New York Post that Governor Cuomo may have a battle on his hands with New Yorkers.  He explained that the government needs to tread lightly on what people can and cannot sell.  These symbols, regardless of their offensive nature Abrams tells the Post, are constitutionally protected.