S6082A

The New York State Senate passed S6082A, known as Ava's Law, by a vote of 58-0 on a roll call. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Fernandez, amends the Public Health Law to establish an education and outreach program for individuals and families affected by pregnancy and infant loss. The legislation directs the Department of Health to provide educational materials, including pamphlets, to those who have experienced pregnancy loss, informing them about physical changes and available support resources. In explaining her vote, Fernandez emphasized that the bill addresses a silent crisis, noting that many women experience pregnancy loss without adequate information or support. She highlighted that the legislation ensures affected individuals understand postpartum physical changes and know where to access state resources during traumatic times. Fernandez named the bill in memory of Ava, the daughter of a constituent who shared her story to support the measure. The senator characterized the bill as part of New York's leadership on reproductive rights and women's health, particularly as other states have moved to restrict abortion access and penalize women for miscarriage and infant loss.