S4583A

The New York State Senate passed the Compassion and Reproductive Equity (CARE) Act on a 38-20 vote, advancing legislation to establish comprehensive care standards for pregnant and postpartum incarcerated individuals and their infants. Sponsored by Sen. Salazar, the bill addresses what supporters characterized as a critical gap in the state's correctional system. According to Salazar, 45 percent of incarcerated pregnant individuals currently receive no prenatal care while incarcerated, contributing to elevated rates of infant mortality, premature births, and unnecessary neonatal intensive care placements. The legislation also aims to reduce harmful separations between mothers and newborns following birth. Opponents, led by Sen. Martins, argued the measure would allow children to remain in prison facilities for extended periods—potentially up to 18 months—which they characterized as inhumane. Salazar credited research from Cornell University's Brooks School of Public Policy in developing the bill's provisions. The measure takes effect 180 days after becoming law.