Bill > S06686

This bill modifies existing public health law to strengthen requirements for hospitals to notify patients or their health care agents about policies that might allow the hospital to refuse to follow directives in a health care proxy (a legal document that allows someone to make medical decisions on behalf of another person). Specifically, the bill requires hospitals to inform patients or their health care agents of such policies prior to admission, with a key exception for emergency situations. In emergency cases, hospitals may provide the information as soon as reasonably possible after admission and must also provide an explanation for why the information was not shared before admission. Additionally, this explanation must be documented in the patient's medical record. The bill aims to ensure greater transparency about potential limitations on patient or health care agent directives, giving individuals more opportunity to understand a hospital's policies before receiving care. The changes will take effect 60 days after the bill becomes law.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6686