A1395C

The New York State Senate passed legislation requiring SUNY and CUNY to provide medication abortion access to students on campus, with a vote of 42-18. Sponsored by Sen. Cleare, the bill mandates that the state's public university systems offer the FDA-approved medication either directly or through referral, taking effect August 1, 2023. Supporters, including Sens. Webb, Stec, Gonzalez, Kennedy, and Stavisky, argued the measure is essential reproductive healthcare that addresses gaps in campus services and represents New York's commitment to protecting women's rights following the Supreme Court's reversal of Roe v. Wade. They emphasized that the medications are safer than over-the-counter pain relievers and that college students, particularly low-income students at public institutions, often lack access to such care. Sen. Helming led opposition questioning whether SUNY and CUNY already provide comprehensive healthcare services and raising concerns about medical safeguards, consultation procedures, and post-procedure support. Cleare responded that young women have contacted her office reporting their colleges lack medication abortion access and that SUNY and CUNY leadership have been consulted and are supportive. Eighteen senators voted against the measure.