1. What is the Public University Emergency Contraception Education Act?

This bill aims to ensure that all colleges and universities within the State University of New York (SUNY) and the City University of New York (CUNY) systems provide information about emergency contraception to their students.

2. Why is this bill being proposed?

• The legislature finds that access to emergency contraception is a basic measure to prevent unwanted pregnancies among college students.

• Emergency contraception is deemed safe and effective by the FDA.

• The sooner emergency contraception is administered, the better the chance of preventing an unwanted pregnancy.

3. What problem does this bill address?

• Lack of awareness and information about emergency contraception among college students.

• Potential for unwanted pregnancies due to this lack of awareness.

4. Key Provisions of the Bill (S. 1683):

• Short Title: The act shall be known as the "Public University Emergency Contraception Education Act".

• Statewide Education Program: Amends the public health law to include a statewide emergency contraception college education and awareness program.

• Definition of Emergency Contraception: Defines "emergency contraception" as one or more prescription drugs used after intercourse to prevent pregnancy, found safe and effective by the FDA.

• Informational Materials: The Department of Health will develop, produce, and distribute informational materials and posters about the safety and efficacy of emergency contraception to all SUNY and CUNY colleges and universities.

• Conspicuous Display: These materials and posters must be conspicuously displayed at appropriate locations around each campus.

• Distribution to Students: Materials should be distributed to students as determined by each college and university.

• Content of Materials: The materials and posters must explain the nature of emergency contraception, including that it is deemed safe and effective in preventing pregnancy by the FDA and *cannot* and *does not* cause abortions.

• Consultation: The Department of Health must consult with representatives of reproductive healthcare providers, students, and university officials in implementing the program.

5. Impact and Significance:

• Increased awareness and knowledge about emergency contraception among college students.

• Empowerment of students to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

• Potential reduction in unwanted pregnancies on college campuses.

6. Talking Points for Advocacy Day:

• "I'm here today to support the Public University Emergency Contraception Education Act because I believe that college students deserve access to accurate information about their reproductive health options."

• "This bill will help reduce unwanted pregnancies by ensuring that students are aware of emergency contraception and how to access it."

• "By providing this information, we are empowering students to make responsible and informed decisions about their sexual health."

7. Possible Questions to Ask Legislators:

• "What is your position on the Public University Emergency Contraception Education Act, and what steps will you take to ensure its passage?"

• "Do you believe that college students should have access to comprehensive information about emergency contraception?"

• "How do you think this bill would impact the health and well-being of students on college campuses in our district?"

• "Are you willing to co-sponsor the Public University Emergency Contraception Education Act and advocate for its swift legislative consideration?"