S259

The New York State Senate passed Senate Print 259, sponsored by Sen. Serrano, an act to amend the Education Law, on a 39-21 vote. The bill addresses health disparities in underserved communities, particularly in the South Bronx and East Harlem, by promoting cultural awareness and competency in the medical profession. Sen. Serrano argued that such measures will improve health outcomes and strengthen connections between communities and healthcare professionals. The legislation takes effect immediately. Twenty-one senators voted against the measure, including Sens. Ashby, Borrello, Felder, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Lanza, Martinez, Mattera, Murray, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Rolison, Scarcella-Spanton, Stec, Tedisco, Weber, and Weik.

The New York State Senate passed legislation requiring cultural awareness and competence training for medical professionals, with a vote of 41-20. Senate Print 259, sponsored by Sen. Serrano, amends the Education Law and Public Health Law to mandate the training. Serrano argued the measure would address racial health disparities affecting communities in East Harlem, the South Bronx, and throughout New York State, particularly in maternal health outcomes. He contended that cultural competency training would improve communication between medical professionals and patients, leading to better health outcomes statewide. Twenty senators voted against the measure, including Ashby, Borrello, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Lanza, Mattera, Murray, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Rolison, Stec, Tedisco, Walczyk, Weber, Weik, and Felder. The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment.