NY A00314

Establishes a program within the Department of Health for screening and counseling related to familial dysautonomia, Canavan's disease, and Tay-Sachs disease, to be implemented primarily through existing health programs.

Authorizes the Commissioner of Health to make grants and contracts with public and nonprofit private entities to operate voluntary screening and counseling programs, and to develop and disseminate educational materials about these three diseases.

Requires that screening and counseling services prioritize blood relatives of known disease victims and high-risk population groups, with genetic counseling provided to identified carriers.

Mandates strict confidentiality of all test results and medical records, making them inadmissible as evidence in court unless the patient consents, statistical data is compiled without identifying information, or a court issues a written order showing good cause.

Specifies that participation in any program established under this article is wholly voluntary and cannot be a prerequisite for eligibility for other state services or assistance; requires the Commissioner to submit a comprehensive report to the Governor and Legislature within one year of enactment.