Assembly Bill A01475

Governor Hochul signed into law A01475 that will now mandate that hospitals collect specific details about a patient’s potential disability needs. On its face it seems like a good idea but it comes with significant downsides. While it allows patients to decline, the very act of putting this into law creates unnecessary complications and potential risks. Hospitals already comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Accommodations like accessible rooms, interpreters, or specialized care are part of the standard practices in healthcare. By formalizing this process in legislation, the bill implies that hospitals aren’t doing their job—a message that’s not only unfair but also dismissive of the efforts medical professionals already make to ensure equitable care. The language in the bill is vague, which opens the door to potential legal risks. For example, if a patient declines to disclose their needs and later feels accommodations weren’t adequate, could the hospital be held liable?

These legal ambiguities could result in unnecessary lawsuits, draining resources that could otherwise be spent on patient care. Even though the bill says providing this information is voluntary, patients might feel pressured to disclose personal details, raising concerns about privacy and judgment. This bill also adds another layer of paperwork for hospitals already burdened with administrative tasks. Intake processes are fast-paced, especially in emergencies, and asking staff to collect, document, and manage this additional data risks slowing down care. The bill also doesn’t explain how this information would actually improve outcomes.

If hospitals are already following ADA guidelines, what’s the real benefit here? This legislation feels redundant and could create more problems than it solves. Instead of adding bureaucratic hurdles, efforts should focus on better enforcing existing ADA standards and empowering healthcare providers with the resources they need to continue delivering inclusive care.