LAW TO AID VICTIMS OF RAPE

PFMLIT General, LEGISLATION, STATE BY STATE NEW YORK

Under one of several pieces of significant legislation signed yesterday by Governor George Pataki, hospitals will be required to offer emergency contraception drugs to rape victims.  The contraceptives, also called morning-after pills, deliver high hormonal doses that stop eggs from becoming fertilized or block their growth.

The state's Catholic Conference withdrew its objections to the bill after legislators amended it so that the drugs would not have to be provided to women who were already pregnant.  The rule takes effect in 120 days.

(New York)