Bill > A04312

This bill authorizes and directs the New York State Commissioner of Health to designate HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 (Human T-cell Lymphotropic Viruses) as communicable diseases, requiring healthcare providers and laboratories to report new cases within 24 hours of diagnosis. The bill mandates that these reports include detailed medical information to help track the prevalence, incidence, and mortality rates of these viruses. The Commissioner is also required to develop comprehensive educational materials about HTLV-1 and HTLV-2, which must be written in clear, understandable language and made available free of charge to physicians, healthcare providers, and high-risk populations. These materials must provide information on diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and community support services, with specific guidance for each virus type, as HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 have different characteristics. The bill includes strict confidentiality provisions for patient information, allowing data sharing only in specific, approved circumstances such as improving medical care, public health assessment, and patient treatment. The law will take effect 120 days after becoming official, with immediate authorization for developing necessary regulations.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4312