State lawmakers have passed legislation to expand access to reproductive health care for New Yorkers.

The legislation will expand access to hormonal contraception by making it available over the counter, particularly assisting marginalized populations who may not have a primary care provider, but do have access to a local pharmacy.

Every student enrolled in a SUNY or CUNY college will also have access to medication abortion on campus as a result of the legislation being signed into law by Governor Hochul on May 2.

The legislation authorizes pharmacists to dispense birth control over the counter pursuant to a non-patient specific standing order from a physician or nurse practitioner.

This bill will increase access to this routine medication, particularly in rural parts of the state where a pharmacy may be more accessible than a doctor's office.

The bill also includes appropriate safeguards to protect patient health.

A1395-C/S1213-B requires that every SUNY and CUNY campus provide access to abortion medication to their student body either by employing or contracting with authorized individuals who may prescribe abortion prescription drugs, or by providing students with information and referrals to providers authorized to prescribe abortion medication. College-age individuals are within the age group most likely to seek abortion care. This legislation would ensure that public university students have meaningful access to medication abortion prescription drugs in the places where they live, work, and spend their free time. Medication abortion prescription drugs are highly safe and effective and have been an important component of abortion care for decades. Additionally, removing abortion access barriers on campuses may reduce the load on external clinics throughout New York.

"At a time when reproductive rights are under attack across our country, SUNY is proud to stand with Governor Hochul on behalf of our students' well-being. Our students' health and wellness is paramount, and Governor Hochul's approach will build on our commitment to expand reproductive health access and ensure students are aware of available resources for their care,” SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said.