Gov. Hochul announces abortion rights agenda for NY

ALBANY, N.Y. (WHEC/AP)— New York Gov. Kathy Hochul Monday announced a new agenda for abortion rights in the state. Her office says the move follows anti-abortion laws in Texas and across the country,

As part of the agenda, Hochul is directing state agencies to coordinate a statewide public information campaign, including the development of a patient bill of rights. She’s also directed the Department of Health to take "immediate action" to develop and widely distribute guidance on the right to provide abortion care, and make medication-based abortion more accessible during telehealth visits.

Hochul also wrote a letter to Facebook to call on the company to combat misinformation about abortions online.

The Texas law, known as SB8, prohibits abortions once medical professionals can detect cardiac activity – usually around six weeks, before some women know they’re pregnant. Courts have blocked other states from imposing similar restrictions, but Texas’ law differs significantly because it leaves enforcement to private citizens through civil lawsuits instead of criminal prosecutors.

"This plan will affirm that in our state, and leaders like Senator [Kirsten] Gillibrand will fight on a national level.," Hochul said. "To the women of Texas, I want to say I am with you. Lady Liberty is here to welcome you with open arms."

Hochul says the DOH will develop a website to connect people to the mentioned efforts.