Brouk-Sponsored “Reproductive Equity Act” Included in Enacted Budget to Ensure Abortion Coverage

ALBANY, NY - Senator Samra Brouk announced that the approved State Fiscal Year (SFY) 2022-23 Budget includes language from the Reproductive Equity Act she sponsors in the Senate (S7002 BROUK). The Budget provisions from her bill codify a requirement that insurance plans cover abortion where they already cover maternity care.

“The provisions of the Reproductive Equity Act ensure that safe and affordable access to abortions exist anywhere maternity care is offered, and I am proud that we were able to include it in the enacted Budget,” said Senator Samra Brouk. “This language will make a major difference in the lives of New York’s women and remove one layer of uncertainty for individuals and families who may be making one of the most difficult decisions of their lives. As the Supreme Court considers the future of reproductive healthcare in America, I will always work to protect your privacy, access to affordable care and bodily rights.”

The Budget also commits $21.3 billion in Foundation Aid for schools statewide; funds the opening of 623 childcare slots in our community because childcare is not only essential for families but serves as an economic development tool that empowers workers and employers alike; and reverses decades of austerity in mental health care, delivering a historic, 5.4% cost of living adjustment for human services workers and bringing up to 1,000 inpatient mental health hospital beds back online.