Bill > A00721

This bill modifies the requirements for creating a health care proxy (a legal document that allows someone to appoint another person to make medical decisions on their behalf) by changing the witness requirement from two adult witnesses to one adult witness, with a specific exception for individuals residing in mental health or developmental disability facilities who will still need two adult witnesses. The bill also expands the definition of forgery in the second degree to include falsely making or altering a health care proxy. Specifically, for most adults, a health care proxy can now be signed in the presence of a single adult witness, while people in mental health or developmental disability facilities must continue to have two witnesses. Additionally, the person appointed as a health care agent cannot serve as a witness to the proxy's execution. The law will take effect 90 days after it becomes law, providing time for healthcare providers and facilities to adjust to the new requirements.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A721