S5635A

The New York State Senate passed legislation Tuesday that expands access to contraceptive care by allowing pharmacists to administer hormonal injections under physician prescription. Senate Print 5635A, sponsored by Sen. Webb, passed on a 44-12 vote. The bill addresses what Webb called contraceptive deserts—areas where over 25,000 New York women lack access to clinics offering the full range of contraceptive options, forcing some to cross county lines for their preferred method. Under the legislation, pharmacists would be authorized to administer Depo-Provera injections every three months, provided they complete required training and administer risk-assessment questionnaires to patients. Webb argued the measure would particularly benefit marginalized communities, young people, and rural residents who have historically faced barriers to reproductive care. Pharmacies' prevalence and flexible hours make them more convenient access points than doctor's offices alone, she said. Twelve senators voted against the measure: Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Gallivan, Griffo, Lanza, Mattera, Murray, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Stec, and Tedisco. The bill takes effect one year after becoming law.