S8843A

The New York State Senate passed legislation requiring hospitals to involve communities in decisions regarding facility closures or downsizing of critical services, with a 55-5 vote on Senate Print 8843A, sponsored by Sen. Rivera. The bill mandates community notification and stakeholder engagement when hospitals consider closing or reducing maternity, mental health, or substance abuse services. Supporters argued the measure addresses a healthcare crisis in New York, where hospital closures have disproportionately affected underserved communities and left patients without access to critical care. Sen. Gonzalez cited the proposed closure of Mount Sinai Beth Israel in her district as an example of why communities need a voice in these decisions. Sen. Rivera noted the bill has passed the Assembly in previous years and establishes a statewide standard for transparency and community participation in hospital decisions. The measure takes effect 60 days after becoming law. Senators Gallivan, Griffo, Oberacker, Stec, and Weber voted against the bill.