Summary of Bill S 1759

Title: Requires the New York State Cancer Services Program to Provide Various Cancer Screenings and Diagnostic Services at No Cost; Appropriation

Bill Number: S 1759

Introduced: January 13, 2025

Status: Referred to Finance

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 1759 aims to enhance public health in New York State by ensuring that residents have access to essential cancer screenings and diagnostic services without any financial burden. The bill recognizes the importance of early detection in improving cancer outcomes and seeks to eliminate barriers to access for vulnerable populations.

Key Provisions

• No-Cost Services: The bill mandates that the New York State Cancer Services Program provide various cancer screenings and diagnostic services at no cost to eligible individuals. This includes, but is not limited to, screenings for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers.

• Funding Appropriation: The bill includes provisions for the appropriation of necessary funds to support the implementation of these services. Specific dollar amounts for funding have not been detailed in the current version of the bill.

• Eligibility Criteria: While the bill does not specify eligibility criteria in the summary, it is expected that the program will target low-income individuals and those without health insurance, similar to previous cancer service initiatives.

Affected Parties

• Individuals: The primary beneficiaries of this bill will be New York State residents who are at risk for cancer and may not have access to screening services due to financial constraints. This includes uninsured individuals and those with limited income.

• Healthcare Providers: Local healthcare providers and facilities that participate in the New York State Cancer Services Program will be impacted as they will be responsible for delivering these no-cost services.

• State Budget: The bill will have implications for the state budget, as it requires an appropriation of funds to support the expanded services.

Procedural Aspects

• Current Status: As of January 13, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Finance Committee for further consideration. This is a crucial step in the legislative process, as it will determine the bill's financial viability and potential amendments.

• Related Legislation: Bill S 1759 is related to prior-session bills S 9258 and S 2377, as well as companion bill A 5176. These related bills may provide context or additional provisions that could influence the current bill's progress and implementation.

Conclusion

Bill S 1759 represents a significant effort to improve cancer screening access in New York State, particularly for underserved populations. By providing these services at no cost, the bill aims to promote early detection and ultimately improve health outcomes for individuals at risk of cancer. The bill is currently under review by the Finance Committee, and its future will depend on the committee's assessment and recommendations.