S9838

An act to amend the Public Health Law — 2024-06-06 · Calendar #1877

NYS Legislature ↗ · OpenLeg API ↗

The New York State Senate passed legislation to amend the Public Health Law on prescription drug affordability, with a vote of 58-2. Sponsored by Sen. Skoufis, the bill takes effect 18 months after becoming law. Supporters, including Sen. Martins and Sen. Helming, argued the measure represents an all-tools-in-the-toolbox approach to making prescription drugs more accessible and affordable for New Yorkers, particularly senior citizens on fixed incomes. Opponents, led by Sen. Borrello, contended the bill is not a genuine solution, citing that six other states with similar legislation remain unapproved by the federal government. Borrello also highlighted Canadian government opposition, noting that Canada's Minister of Health stated the country will not allow its drug supply to be endangered by importation schemes. Only Senators Borrello and Gallivan voted against the measure.

Passed Senate Ayes: 58 · Nays: 2

Debate Summary

The bill addresses prescription drug affordability, with supporters arguing for an all-tools-in-the-toolbox approach to make drugs more accessible and cheaper for New Yorkers. Opponents contend the legislation is not a panacea, citing that similar state laws remain unapproved by the federal government and that Canada itself opposes drug importation, stating its market is too small to impact U.S. drug prices and that it will not allow its drug supply to be endangered.

Transcript Mentions

These votes were extracted from the floor transcript by AI. NYS Senate roll calls are read in full, but AI extraction may not capture every senator — so this list is incomplete and skews toward named dissenting votes. Use the Official API Data table above for the complete roll call.

Senator	Vote	Party
Borrello	nay	Republican
Gallivan	nay	Republican