Governor Hochul Signs FIRE HATE Act to Assist Individuals Seeking Abortion or Gender-Affirming Care in New York

ALBANY, NY – Today, Governor Hochul signed the FIRE HATE Act (S9039/A10094), sponsored by Senator Alessandra Biaggi and Assemblymember Chris Burdick, to institute legal safeguards for individuals who travel to New York for reproductive or gender affirming healthcare. This legislation creates a cause of action for unlawful interference with protected rights under New York Civil Rights Law. This claim would cover instances where a person exercised or attempted to exercise their rights under New York State law to obtain medical care – including terminating a pregnancy or receiving gender affirming care – if such action resulted in litigation or criminal charges in another state against them. 

“Today, New York is one step closer to becoming a true sanctuary state for those seeking healthcare no matter the circumstances. While other states are looking to criminalize abortion and gender-affirming care, New York continues to reaffirm its commitment to reproductive justice and serve as an model for the rest of our nation. The FIRE HATE Act will provide redress for individuals who come to New York for abortion or gender-affirming care— ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, always has the right to care. I’d like to thank Governor Hochul, Assemblymember Burdick, and my Legislative colleagues for prioritizing this crucial legislation and ensuring that New York remains a safe haven for reproductive care,” said State Senator Alessandra Biaggi (D-Bronx/Westchester).

“New York must stand together with those who come here from states that are hostile to basic health care rights. The FIRE HATE Act will protect them from those attempting to intimidate and harass them with litigation in their home states. Plain and simple, it is an infringement on the rights established in New York law to interfere with anyone attempting to come here for reproductive or gender affirming health care. The FIRE HATE Act, which establishes a cause of action for interfering with these protected rights, is critical to people who simply want control over their own bodies," said Assemblymember Chris Burdick (D-Westchester). 

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