Requiring the provision of sexual and reproductive health services by the department of health and mental hygiene.

A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to requiring the provision of sexual and reproductive health services by the department of health and mental hygiene

This bill would require the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to provide sexual and reproductive health services and conduct research on sexual and reproductive health disparities within the city. In providing such services, the department will have the power and duty to: provide outreach, education, and support to individuals, especially low-income individuals and those without health insurance, regarding issues related to sexual and reproductive health, including but not limited to: contraception, including a broad range of methods such as long-acting reversible contraception; preconception health services; abortion services; family planning services; testing, prevention, and treatment for HIV; testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections; routine screening for breast and cervical cancer; and health education in community settings to promote reproductive health, to prevent unintended pregnancy, and to promote access to reproductive and preventive health services. The office would also make referrals to affordable and accessible services related to contraception, abortion, family planning, breast and cervical cancer screenings, and counseling, testing, and treatment for HIV and sexually transmitted infections, when determined appropriate by the department.