Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim October 6-12, 2025, as Physician Assistant Week in the State of New York
Summary
This resolution memorializes Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim October 6-12, 2025, as Physician Assistant Week in New York State, in conjunction with National Physician Assistant Week. It is a ceremonial measure that recognizes the physician assistant profession and its contributions to health care delivery, rather than creating or changing substantive law.
The resolution highlights the role of physician assistants in taking medical histories, examining patients, ordering and interpreting tests, diagnosing conditions, providing treatment, prescribing medicine, counseling patients, and supporting outreach and wellness efforts. It also notes the size of the profession nationwide and the historical origins of National PA Week, including the first PA Day in 1987 and the birthday of the profession’s founder, Eugene A. Stead, Jr., MD.
Impact
Because this is a Senate resolution, it does not amend the Public Health Law, Education Law, or any other statute, and it does not impose regulatory or fiscal obligations on state agencies, health systems, or practitioners. Its practical effect is limited to official recognition and public awareness, with the Governor being requested to issue a proclamation designating the week in New York State.
Sentiment
The tone of the resolution is strongly supportive and celebratory. The bill frames physician assistants as an important part of the health care workforce and reflects the Legislature’s customary practice of honoring professions and public service contributions through commemorative resolutions. No opposition, dissent, or negative vote history is provided in the available materials.
Contention
There is no recorded committee debate, vote history, or other evidence of controversy in the materials provided. Any potential point of discussion would likely be limited to the broader practice of issuing honorary proclamations and whether such recognitions should be prioritized, but no specific objection is identified here. The resolution itself is noncontroversial and focused on professional recognition.