S1703

The New York State Senate passed legislation requiring SUNY and CUNY campuses to install vending machines providing emergency contraception, with the bill clearing on a 45-13 vote. Senate Print 1703, sponsored by Sen. Webb, mandates that each institution offering in-person instruction maintain at least one vending machine stocked with emergency contraceptive medications. Webb, explaining her vote, argued the measure addresses critical accessibility barriers for students, particularly those in rural or underserved areas who may lack convenient access to off-campus pharmacies. She emphasized the time-sensitive nature of emergency contraception, which must be used within three days of unprotected sexual activity, and noted the bill addresses concerns about privacy, stigma, transportation, and cost. Webb cited the U.S. Supreme Court's Dobbs decision restricting abortion access as making the legislation more urgent. The bill aligns New York with Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Illinois, which have similar provisions. Thirteen senators voted against the measure: Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Chan, Gallivan, Griffo, Lanza, Mattera, Murray, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Stec, and Tedisco. The legislation takes effect one year after becoming law.

The New York State Senate passed S1703, sponsored by Sen. Webb, an act to amend the Education Law, by a vote of 49-10 on a roll call. The bill would take effect one year after becoming law. During floor debate, Sen. Sepúlveda spoke in favor of the legislation, citing personal experience with breast cancer in his family and the critical importance of ensuring insurance providers and contractors offer necessary health services. He thanked Sen. Webb for sponsoring the measure, stating it would help many women throughout the state. Ten senators voted against the bill: Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Gallivan, Lanza, Mattera, Murray, Oberacker, Ortt, Stec, and Walczyk.