Bill > A01435

This bill requires that any textbook approved under section 701 of the New York education law that references the "Sea of Japan" must also include the alternative name "East Sea" when describing this body of water. The bill is significant because it addresses a longstanding naming dispute between countries in the region, particularly South Korea (which prefers "East Sea") and Japan (which uses "Sea of Japan"). By mandating this dual naming in educational materials, the bill aims to acknowledge different cultural perspectives on geographic nomenclature. The legislation would apply to all textbooks approved and issued on or after July 1st following the bill's enactment, ensuring that future educational resources in New York will reflect this more inclusive naming approach. The bill represents a small but meaningful gesture toward recognizing alternative geographic terminology and potentially promoting cultural sensitivity in educational materials.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1435