FPA holds its 26th Annual Legislative Conference and celebrates the 30th anniversary of Roe v. Wade with a news conference led by pro-choice clergy.

Advocates join with the New York State Coalition Against Sexual Assault to push for passage of the Emergency Contraception for Rape Victims Act. FPA launches an intensive media campaign that includes print and radio advertisements, as well as countless print and broadcast news stories, editorials and letters to the editor. The bill passes in the final hours of the legislative session and is signed into law by Governor George Pataki.

FPA is successful in restoring family planning funding in the State Budget, with $2.1 million added to Executive Budget appropriations. The Family Planning Benefit Program, enabling family planning clinics to provide services to thousands of new clients, is implemented.

The Women’s Health and Wellness Act goes into effect on January 1 and Catholic Charities’ challenge to the law is heard in State Supreme Court on September 19. FPA submits an amicus brief and affidavit in defense of the law. The MergerWatch Project conducts national research on emerging issues in religious/secular hospital mergers.

FPA works hard to help block so-called “unborn victims of violence” laws at both state and federal levels. In November, President George Bush signs an abortion ban into law, which is immediately challenged in the courts.

The “Get the Facts NY” campaign is launched to provide information about the need for comprehensive sex education. FPA also initiates a Republicans for Choice project, which begins with identifying pro-choice Republicans in targeted regions in New York.

FPA’s Immigrant Women’s Health Initiative successfully works with the Center for Women in Government & Civil Society to hold regional meetings, bringing together immigrant women’s organizations and family planning providers to identify obstacles that limit access.