Bill > A00482

This bill enacts the Lab Services Accessibility Act, which amends the public health law to expand definitions and protections related to clinical laboratory services. The bill introduces new definitions, including "health services facilitator" (an entity that assists in facilitating health-related services) and "public health program" (a health initiative supported by public funds or addressing specific public health needs). The new definitions encompass a wide range of health services, including testing for sensitive health issues like sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy termination, PrEP/PEP, and drug screening, as well as testing recommended by federal health guidelines or aimed at improving healthcare access for underserved populations. The bill also modifies existing regulations to allow nonprofit clinics, health care providers, and health services facilitators to support public health programs, and updates language related to substance abuse services and governmental agency oversight. Additionally, the bill gives the health department more direct authority to adopt and amend rules to implement these provisions, removing the previous requirement for public health council approval. The changes aim to improve accessibility, confidentiality, and support for various health-related laboratory services.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A482