Senator Monica R. Martinez Advances Shannon's Law Out of Committee

(Albany, NY) On April 29, 2019, Senator Monica R. Martinez moved Bill S3852, otherwise known as Shannon's Law, out of committee. The genesis for this piece of legislation was the tragic passing of Shannon Saturno, who lost her battle with breast cancer at the age of 31. The way the current law stands, a woman is eligible for one mammogram between the ages of 35-39. This bill expands access to detection services,  making it so women in that same age bracket would be eligible for annual exams based on their physician’s recommendation.

Breast Cancer in those under age 40 has been known to be more aggressive and can potentially lead to fertility complications, and it is possible that the low rate of diagnosis for those under 40 is because they are unable to afford testing. With 1 in 8 women developing breast cancer in their lifetime, the passage of this bill is critical to enabling early detection and saving lives.

Shannon’s law was first introduced in 2017 by Assemblywoman Jean-Pierre and passed in the Assembly in 2017 and 2018. It has not passed the Senate.

“I strongly believe in the importance of early detection, and it is imperative that women under 40 have access to annual mammograms when they are deemed medically necessary. Insurance coverage should work to facilitate early detection, not make it more difficult for individuals to determine if they have cancer. Since introducing this legislation, I have engaged in several conversations with the Chairman of the Senate Insurance Committee, Senator Breslin. I am hopeful that with a new majority, we can get it passed in the Senate.” Stated Martinez

Assemblywoman Kimberly Jean-Pierre Stated “Many of us know someone who has heroically battled breast cancer, and we know that early detection can often be the difference between life and death. Today’s committee vote is a monumental step forward in ensuring that Shannon’s Law is finally enacted here in New York State, and I look forward to again passing this critical legislation in the Assembly so that New Yorkers can have greater access to life-saving mammogram screenings.”

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