New York Governor Hochul signs law to rename subway station in honor of Stonewall Inn and support people living with HIV/AIDS

STATEN ISLAND, NY — New York Governor Kathy Hochul on Friday signed a package of five bills aimed at supporting LGBTQ+ New Yorkers and people living with HIV/AIDS.

“New York is the birthplace of the LGBTQ+ rights movement and has consistently been a leader in advancing equality and justice for all Americans.” Hochul said. “As elected officials in other states use their powers to strip away these rights, I am proud to sign legislation aimed at elevating LGBTQ+ history and addressing inequities experienced by people living with HIV/AIDS, ensuring that our state is a safe and affirming place for people living with HIV/AIDS. everyone.”

A law authorizes the Christopher Street-Sheridan Square subway station in Manhattan to be renamed Christopher Street-Stonewall National Monument Station. The move aims to highlight the significance of the Stonewall Inn, the site of the 1969 riots that sparked the global LGBTQ+ human rights movement.

The remaining four laws improve HIV testing requirements and rapid HIV diagnosis; prohibit discrimination against people who are prescribed PrEP for HIV prevention; prohibit insurers from restricting or delaying the administration of prescription drugs to a person with HIV or AIDS; and clarify that insurers cannot impose copayments for PrEP or PEP to prevent HIV infection.

“This series of bills signed by the Governor today demonstrates the commitment of Governor Hochul and the New York State Legislature, particularly Majority Leader (Andrea) Stewart-Cousins ​​and Speaker (Carl) Heastie, to ensuring that LGBTQ New Yorkers have all the rights and protections afforded to them under New York State law,” said State Senator Brad Hoylamn-Sigal.