Lawmakers propose 'abortion access fund'

Democratic state lawmakers want New Yorkers to have the option of donating to an “abortion access fund” when they’re filing their taxes.

Legislation introduced this year from Sen. Alessandra Biaggi and Assemblywoman Karines Reyes is designed to make it easier for women to access abortion care in New York, according to the legislative memorandum. Donations would be made possible from state tax forms and the funding would be distributed to “not-for-profit entities that provide support to individuals in need of abortion services,” according to the bill text.

Every year the state comptroller’s office would issue a report on expenditures from the fund, which is jointly controlled with the state Department of Health.

“This bill provides an effective means to improve access to this health care service and affords the majority of New York taxpayers who support the right to abortion care, the ability to personally contribute to entities that help to make that right a reality for those who are financially struggling,” reads the bill memorandum.

Read more: https://blog.timesunion.com/capitol/archives/288367/lawmakers-propose-abortion-access-fund/
(Albany Times Union)