Vending

New York law could require contraception vending on college campuses

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March 26, 2026

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A proposed New York law, the Emergency Contraception Act, would require every campus in the State University of New York and the City University of New York systems to install at least one vending machine dispensing emergency contraception, according to a Spectrum News report. The bill has already passed the state Senate and is under consideration in an Assembly committee.

Supporters say the initiative would expand access for college students and build on efforts already underway through the New York Birth Control Access Project, which has been working to place more contraception vending machines on campuses.

Advocates say these machines help reduce barriers to reproductive healthcare by making emergency contraception more accessible and affordable. On some campuses the products are free, while on others they are offered at a low cost. Supporters also point out that many areas of New York are considered "reproductive deserts," where access to reproductive health services is limited, making campus vending machines an important alternative for students.