S3348

The Senate passed S3348, an act to amend the Public Health Law, on a roll call vote of 57-0. The bill takes effect January 1st. No debate was recorded on the measure.

The New York State Senate passed Senate Print 3348, sponsored by Sen. Fernandez, requiring general hospitals to provide substance use disorder education and treatment services to patients during discharge. The bill passed on a roll call vote, 61-0. The legislation mandates that hospitals offer medication-assisted treatment within 72 hours of admission for patients with substance use disorders or at risk of developing one, and immediately address withdrawal symptoms. For patients who refuse services, hospitals must connect them to appropriate providers, including syringe exchange programs, and inform them of available treatment options. Fernandez cited CDC data showing over 81,000 drug overdose deaths in the 12 months ending May 2020—the highest on record—with acceleration during the COVID-19 pandemic. She argued the bill ensures "no wrong door to enter treatment" by requiring hospitals to connect at-risk patients with needed services. The bill takes effect January 1.