MCC Daily Tribune
Governor Hochul Signs Legislative Package to Expand Access to Reproductive Health Care for New Yorkers
Legislation (A1395-C/S1213-B) Ensures All Public Colleges and Universities in the SUNY and CUNY Systems Offer Access to Medication Abortion
SUNY issued the following news release on May 2, 2023:
Governor Kathy Hochul today signed key legislation to expand access to reproductive health care across the state and solidify New York's historic standing as the nation's first Safe Harbor State. As outlined in the 2023 State of the State, the Governor signed legislation (A1060-A/S1043-A) to expand access to hormonal contraception by making it available over the counter, particularly assisting marginalized populations who may not have a primary care provider, but do have access to a local pharmacy. The Governor also signed legislation (A1395-C/S1213-B) to ensure that every student enrolled in a SUNY or CUNY college has access to medication abortion on campus.
"As anti-choice extremists and judges continue to roll back abortion rights across the country, we are fighting back here in New York," Governor Hochul said. "I am proud to sign these landmark pieces of legislation that protect and expand access to abortion and reproductive health care. Under my watch, I will continue to ensure that New York remains a safe harbor for those in need of care."
In line with the Governor's State of the State, legislation A1060-A/S1043-A authorizes pharmacists to dispense birth control over the counter pursuant to a non-patient specific standing order from a physician or nurse practitioner. This bill -- led by State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky and Assemblymember Amy Paulin -- will increase access to this routine medication, particularly in rural parts of the State where a pharmacy may be more accessible than a doctor's office. The bill also includes appropriate safeguards to protect patient health.
A1395-C/S1213-B requires that every SUNY and CUNY campus provide access to abortion medication to their student body either by employing or contracting with authorized individuals who may prescribe abortion prescription drugs, or by providing students with information and referrals to providers authorized to prescribe abortion medication. College-age individuals are within the age group most likely to seek abortion care. This legislation would ensure that public university students have meaningful access to medication abortion prescription drugs in the places where they live, work, and spend their free time. Medication abortion prescription drugs are highly safe and effective and have been an important component of abortion care for decades. Additionally, removing abortion access barriers on campuses may reduce the load on external clinics throughout New York.
SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr. said, "At a time when reproductive rights are under attack across our country, SUNY is proud to stand with Governor Hochul on behalf of our students' well-being. Our students' health and wellness is paramount, and Governor Hochul's approach will build on our commitment to expand reproductive health access and ensure students are aware of available resources for their care."
Hency Yuen-Eng
Community Relations
05/04/2023