Bill > S01970

This bill requires parental notification at least 48 hours before an abortion is performed on an unemancipated minor (defined as a person under 18 who is not legally married or otherwise emancipated). The notification must be written and delivered either personally or by certified mail to a custodial parent or legal guardian. The bill provides limited exceptions to this notification requirement, such as medical emergencies, written consent from the parent, or a court order waiving the notification. If a minor objects to notifying their parent, they can seek a court order from the family court to bypass the notification requirement. The bill establishes a specific judicial process for minors to obtain such an order, which includes providing the minor with court-appointed counsel and maintaining the confidentiality of the proceedings. The legislation also prohibits coercing a minor into having an abortion and establishes penalties for healthcare providers who perform abortions without proper notification, including potential misdemeanor charges and civil liability. The underlying purpose of the bill, as stated in the legislative findings, is to protect minors, preserve family structure, and ensure parental involvement in significant medical decisions.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1970