CA News

Governor Signs DOH Oversight Bill Into Law

September 17, 2009

Governor Paterson has signed the DOH Oversight Bill into law, officially requiring the Department of Health to monitor HIV and hepatitis C care in New York State prisons and jails.

The hundreds of emails the Governor received from our supporters showed him just how concerned New Yorkers are about this issue -- and we thank you for standing with us.

Not only will thousands of incarcerated people living with HIV and hepatitis C now receive care subject to the same scrutiny as people in the community, but the long-term public health implications are significant: people who receive quality health services in prison are more likely to continue treatment after release and encourage family and friends to seek testing and care.

We commend Governor Paterson for showing strong leadership on this issue. His action represents a significant step forward in making our prison system more transparent and accountable and providing needed medical services to a highly vulnerable population. 

We also want to recognize the bill's sponsors, Senator Thomas Duane and Assemblymember Richard Gottfried, whose longstanding leadership and courageous advocacy were critical to achieving this victory.

And to the entire advocacy community who got behind this issue and worked to make this bill a reality -- we are proud to have partnered with you and we thank you all for your steadfast activism, dedication and support.

The CA will monitor the implementation of the new legislation to ensure that it fulfills its potential and keep working for fair and humane criminal justice and public health policies.