The parent poster already explained why this position would be seen as run-of-the-mill and ineffectual if comes from the NYT's editorial voice. The NYT choosi

The parent poster already explained why this position would be seen as run-of-the-mill and ineffectual if comes from the NYT's editorial voice. The NYT choosing to run this is exactly what you want them to do, using their position to push this issue by choosing to run this Op-Ed. Yes, It's a bland position only catching up to the status quo of many statehouses, but what's significant is the byline. In this case, The Times is showing Shutlz and Aspe approve of the steps taken in states to an audience that's not ready to make any baby steps at a federal level.