FPA embarks on a partnership with International Planned Parenthood Federation European Network, exchanging advocacy techniques and discussing global initiatives.

The Education Fund of FPA receives funding to strengthen cultural and linguistic competence in reproductive health care settings. The Immigrant Women’s Health Initiative plans three cultural competency assessments at sites throughout the state to assist clinics in developing and implementing strategies to deliver high quality reproductive health care to every client, regardless of race, ethnicity, cultural background or English proficiency.

FPA refines its work on sex education and the Healthy Teens Act is reintroduced in the State Legislature. The bill continues to receive strong bi-partisan support and passes the Assembly, but the Senate does not bring the bill for a vote.

Coalition and grassroots work continues in support of the Unintended Pregnancy Prevention Act, which would increase access to emergency contraception through patient non-specific prescriptions. The bill, sponsored by Assemblymember Amy Paulin is passed by both the Assembly and Senate. FPA conducts a huge media and public awareness campaign throughout the summer, culminating in a rally in Capitol Park to encourage Governor George Pataki to sign the bill into law. At the last possible moment, Governor Pataki vetoes the bill.

Concerned Clergy for Choice organizes a highly successful Clergy Day in the State Capitol and produces a resource for pro-choice people of faith entitled When a Woman Makes a Choice: A Curriculum on Reproductive Decisions for Clinical Pastoral Education.

After eight years of growth with Family Planning Advocates of New York State, MergerWatch becomes a national project which will work to save reproductive health services in communities facing religious/secular hospital mergers across the country.