Bill > A08841

This bill establishes a "gender-affirming care access program" to support and improve access to gender-affirming care, which is defined as any care provided to affirm an individual's gender identity or expression, including self-provided care, but excluding surgical interventions on minors with variations in sex characteristics that are not initiated by the patient. The program, overseen by the commissioner, will provide funding to providers and non-profit organizations to increase access, cover uncompensated care, and address the support needs of individuals seeking this care. Funding will be distributed through grants based on criteria such as expanding provider capacity through staff recruitment, training, facility improvements, technology, and insurance costs, as well as covering uncompensated services for those who cannot afford them and addressing practical support needs. Importantly, the program will not require providers to disclose patient identifying information, and all funded entities must ensure patient confidentiality.