State Legislature Passes NY Health Information Privacy Act
ALBANY, NY – Today, the New York State Legislature passed the New York Health Information Privacy Act, legislation that would give New Yorkers control over their electronic health data and make it harder for law enforcement to prosecute those who provide, receive, or help others seeking access to care. In response, the New York Civil Liberties Union issued the following statement, attributable to Senior Policy Counsel Allie Bohm:
“Today, on the 52nd anniversary of Roe v. Wade, days after an anti-abortion extremist administration returned to the White House, the New York Legislature stood up for New Yorkers’ rights to control their own personal health information.
“Whether it’s accessing abortion, attending routine doctor’s visits, or seeking gender affirming care, in today’s world, no one receives, provides, or helps others access health care without leaving a digital trail. New Yorkers often think this information is protected and are shocked when they learn that it is not. The New York Health Information Privacy Act will remedy that and ensure that New Yorkers — not big tech companies, bad actors, or government entities — have control over the intimate health information collected through fitness apps, phone records, search engines, period tracking apps, and the many other tools that are part of modern life.
“Now more than ever, New Yorkers must be able to receive care and monitor their health without fear of inappropriate data sharing or misuse. We’re gratified that the State Legislature recognized the urgent need for increased privacy protections over New Yorkers’ health information. We urge the Governor to sign this bill immediately into law.”