Gold Quoted in Crain’s New York Business on NYS Shield Law Protections for Telemedicine

Manatt Health Partner  was quoted in Crain's New York Business on the implications of New York State’s  (NYS) shield law for telehealth abortion providers practicing across state lines following recent legal action against a NYS doctor.  

After the doctor allegedly prescribed and mailed abortion medication to residents of Texas and Louisiana, both states took legal actions against her. According to the article, while New York’s governor rejected an extradition order from Louisiana, the two states could oppose New York’s refusal to cooperate, leading to challenges against the NYS shield law, which is designed to protect abortion providers from states which have outlawed the procedure.  

Since the new administration has not created federal policy regarding abortion, shield law compliance matters remain between states, and those which have banned abortion can continue to pursue legal ramifications against telehealth practitioners who prescribe such medications to their residents. “It provides very helpful protections within the state,” Gold said of the shield law. “But it’s not with no risk for those who are practicing across state lines.” 

Read the full article .