Issues: Health

Senate Republicans today announced they would restore millions of dollars for important women’s health programs - - including initiatives to help women overcome the trauma of rape, eating disorders and breast cancer- - that were targeted for reduction as part of the Governor’s Executive Budget. Approximately $8 million in cuts in these areas were rejected as part of the Senate’s one-house budget plan, which was expected to be acted on later today. Under the Executive Budget proposal, the Governor recommended shifting funding for 16 women’s health and wellness programs into six discretionary “pools,” and then subjected those “pools” to a 10 percent, across-the-board cut.

ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Today, Senator O'Brien stood with local agencies who provide services and support to people with developmental disabilities in calling for the restoration of $120 million in funding cuts proposed in a recent budget amendment.

"Governor Cuomo has led the way in reforming the budget process and returning stability to Albany.  However, as we continue budget negotiations, I believe it is vital that we enable our state’s nonprofits to fulfill their essential roles in our communities. I look forward to working with the Governor and legislative leaders to pass a responsible, yet fair, budget,” Senator O’Brien said.

In an extensive interview with the Journal News Editorial Board, Senator Stewart-Cousins discussed the importance of passing the provisions of the Reproductive Health Act in New York State this year. Tracey Brooks, the President and CEO of Family Planning Advocates, also took part in the hour-long interview.

The NYS Department of Financial Services (DFS) is setting new rules to speed the processing of insurance claims in areas affected by Storm Sandy. The new regulation reduces the amount of time an insurer can delay its decision on a claim, and requires insurers to report to the Department on how many claims it is delaying and the reasons for the delays.