Requires information made public by the state board of professional medical conduct and health information to be published in the 8 most spoken languages

3 Co-sponsors

• Jeffrey D. Klein
• Liz Krueger
• John L. Sampson

BILL NUMBER:S1122

Title of bill

An act to amend the public health law, in relation to information disseminated to the public by the state board of professional medical conduct and by the department of health relating to health information

Purpose or general idea of bill

Requires information made public by the state board of professional medical conduct and health information to be published in the 8 most spoken languages.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1. section 230 of the public health law is amended by adding a new subdivision 20 to read as follows: All information, findings, conclusions and determinations which are authorized or required to be disclosed to the public shall be published in both written and electronic form in the 8 languages which are most spoken in New York State.

Justification

This legislation ensures the public's awareness of health issues by making information accessible in their native tongue. The increase of diversity among constituents makes it vital for information to be translated in multiple languages. Having this information only in English can only benefit those fluent in the English language and not the public as a whole.

Prior legislative history

2010: S.2077 - Referred to Health

Fiscal implications

To be determined.

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the one-hundred twentieth day after it shall have become a law; provided that, effective immediately, any rules and regulations or any other action necessary to implement the provisions of this act on its effective date are authorized and directed to be completed on or before such date.