Bill > S04177

This bill establishes a comprehensive approach to raising awareness and supporting research for celiac disease in New York State through multiple initiatives. The bill first provides context by explaining that celiac disease is a genetic disorder affecting approximately 1 in 133 people, which damages the small intestine and prevents nutrient absorption when people consume gluten. It then introduces several key provisions: first, it allows senior high schools to provide optional health education instruction about celiac disease awareness, with potential testing and curriculum guidelines from the state commissioner of education. Second, it mandates that healthcare professionals (including physicians, nurses, and dentists) complete a two-hour training course on celiac disease awareness by 2028. Third, the bill creates a special New York State Celiac Disease Awareness and Research Fund, which allows individual taxpayers to voluntarily contribute during tax filing. The fund will support both public awareness projects and scientific research into celiac disease, with a stipulation that no more than 10% of the fund can be used for research projects in a given fiscal year. The overall goal is to increase understanding of this serious medical condition and support efforts to improve diagnosis, treatment, and public knowledge about celiac disease.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4177