New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S06104

Introduced
3/5/25  
Refer
3/5/25  

Caption

Establishes the interagency task force on health literacy, to study health literacy and develop recommendations for improving health literacy in this state.

Summary

Bill S06104 aims to establish an interagency task force on health literacy within the State University of New York (SUNY). The task force's primary objective is to study health literacy among New York residents and develop recommendations to improve it. The bill recognizes that health literacy significantly impacts individuals' ability to access healthcare services and make informed health decisions, particularly among vulnerable populations such as older adults, minorities, and low-income individuals. The task force will consist of various stakeholders, including representatives from health agencies, educational institutions, and community organizations, to ensure a comprehensive approach to addressing health literacy challenges. The task force will evaluate current health literacy levels, identify barriers to accessing healthcare, and assess the impact of rising healthcare costs and complex treatments on health literacy. It will also focus on promoting the use of plain language in healthcare communications and simplifying enrollment processes for health insurance. By December 15, 2026, the task force is required to report its findings and recommendations to the legislature, which may include proposed regulations and legislation aimed at enhancing health literacy statewide.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will amend the education law to create a formal structure for addressing health literacy in New York. The establishment of the task force will facilitate collaboration among various health and educational agencies, potentially leading to improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs. The recommendations from the task force could result in significant changes to how health information is communicated to the public, particularly for populations that currently face barriers due to low health literacy. This may also influence future legislation and policies related to healthcare access and education.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S06104 appears to be generally positive, as it addresses a critical issue in public health that affects many New Yorkers. Discussions indicate a recognition of the importance of health literacy in improving healthcare access and outcomes. However, there may be concerns regarding the implementation of the task force's recommendations and the allocation of resources necessary to support its initiatives.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the composition of the task force and the effectiveness of its recommendations. Some stakeholders may question whether the appointed representatives adequately represent the diverse populations affected by health literacy issues. Additionally, there may be debates about the feasibility of implementing the proposed strategies and the potential costs associated with funding the task force's recommendations.

Companion Bills

NY A01380

Same As Establishes the interagency task force on health literacy, to study health literacy and develop recommendations for improving health literacy in this state.

Previously Filed As

NY A02244

Establishes the interagency task force on health literacy, to study health literacy and develop recommendations for improving health literacy in this state.

NY A01380

Establishes the interagency task force on health literacy, to study health literacy and develop recommendations for improving health literacy in this state.

NY HB1295

Relating to a health literacy plan developed by the statewide health coordinating council and the inclusion of health literacy in the state health plan.

NY HB4091

Education; Oklahoma Family Literacy Task Force Act; creating the Oklahoma Family Literacy Task Force to study a comprehensive family literacy strategy; effective date.

NY S914

Establishes Elementary Student Literacy Task Force.

NY SB641

Relating to a health literacy plan developed by the statewide health coordinating council and the inclusion of health literacy in the state health plan.

NY HB6077

HEAL-AI Act Healthcare Education in AI Literacy Act

NY HR0199

A resolution to declare October 2025 as Health Literacy Month in the state of Michigan.

NY HB752

Mississippi Young Readers Club; establish pilot program to provide reading literature to certain students to enhance early literacy.

NY HCR67

Proclaiming October 2025 As "health Literacy Month" In The State Of Delaware.

Similar Bills

NM SB37

High Quality Literacy Instruction Act

CA SB1048

State Seal of Climate Literacy.

MI HR0199

A resolution to declare October 2025 as Health Literacy Month in the state of Michigan.

HI SCR195

Requesting The Board Of Education, In Collaboration With The Department Of Education, To Revise Public High School Graduation Requirements To Include Successful Completion Of A Standalone Financial Literacy Course.

HI SR192

Requesting The Board Of Education, In Collaboration With The Department Of Education, To Revise Public High School Graduation Requirements To Include Successful Completion Of A Standalone Financial Literacy Course.

WA HB1295

Using evidence-based instructional practices in reading and writing literacy for public elementary students.

CA AB2544

Education for Filmmakers Pilot Program.

HI HB936

Relating To Financial Literacy.