Bill > S03356

This bill enacts the Lab Services Accessibility Act, which amends the public health law to expand definitions and provisions related to clinical laboratory services. The bill introduces new definitions, including "health services facilitator" as any entity that helps coordinate health-related services, and "public health program" as initiatives involving clinical laboratory services that are either publicly funded or address specific public health needs. These needs include confidential testing for pregnancy termination, sexually transmitted infections, HIV prevention, drug screening, and 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, healthcare providers, and health services facilitators supporting public health programs to be exempt from certain payment restrictions. Additionally, the bill shifts rulemaking authority from the public health council to the department, giving the department more direct control over adopting and amending regulations related to clinical laboratory services. The changes aim to improve accessibility, confidentiality, and support for essential health testing and services across various populations and contexts.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3356