NY DOH Press Releases 2026

Sixteen Landmarks Illuminated Blue and Green for National Donate Life Day

NY DOH announced that 16 landmarks across New York State will be illuminated in blue and green on April 10, 2026, in honor of National Donate Life Blue & Green Day. The initiative aims to raise awareness about organ, eye, and tissue donor registration. In 2024, more than 50 percent of eligible New Yorkers joined the Donate Life Registry, now at 52.9 percent. The NY Living Donor Support Program, launched October 2025, has received 124 applications with a 100 percent acceptance rate and nearly $215,000 reimbursed to living donor applicants.

State Landmarks Illuminated Blue for World Parkinson's Day

The New York State Department of Health announced that 16 state landmarks will be illuminated blue on the evening of April 11 in recognition of World Parkinson's Day. The landmarks include One World Trade Center, Niagara Falls, Grand Central Terminal, and other notable sites. Commissioner Dr. James McDonald encouraged individuals experiencing movement difficulties to consult healthcare providers for treatment options.

NY State Health Celebrates National Public Health Week

The New York State Department of Health celebrates National Public Health Week (April 6-12, 2026) with Governor Hochul's proclamation. The announcement highlights 2026 public health initiatives including proposed vaccine legislation to set state immunization standards, restructuring of the Essential Plan lowering income eligibility to 200% of the federal poverty line, and expanded scope of practice for certified medication assistants, physician assistants, and medical assistants.

Black Maternal Health Week Roundtable to Address Disparities in Brooklyn

NY State Department of Health announces a roundtable discussion on April 13, 2026 in Brooklyn to recognize Black Maternal Health Week. The event will bring together state and city health officials, maternal health practitioners, and community advocates to address ongoing disparities in maternal health outcomes for Black mothers and families across New York State.

Pedestrian Safety Awareness Campaign Launched by NY DOH

The New York State Department of Health announced a $2.5 million media campaign to raise awareness about pedestrian safety best practices for drivers and pedestrians. The campaign is conducted in partnership with the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee and the New York State Department of Transportation, responding to over 65,000 pedestrian injuries and 1,000 fatalities since 2020.

DMV Urges New Yorkers to Register as Life-Saving Organ Donors

The New York DMV has launched a public awareness campaign urging state residents to register as organ donors, highlighting that approximately 8,000 New Yorkers are currently awaiting organ transplants. The campaign notes that 52.9% of eligible state residents have registered as donors. This is an informational initiative rather than a regulatory mandate.

Governor Hochul Declares April Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Governor Hochul issued a proclamation declaring April 2026 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month in New York State. State landmarks including 1WTC, the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, and others will be illuminated in teal on April 1 and April 29. The FY27 Executive Budget proposes extending rape kit retention periods and legislation to prevent evidence destruction without survivor consent.

Waterbody-Specific Fish Consumption Advisories Updated

The New York State Department of Health updated fish consumption advisories for waterbodies statewide. For the first time in 50 years, the Department relaxed advisories for the Lower Hudson River due to declining PCB levels, allowing the general population to eat up to four meals per month of certain fish including striped bass. More restrictive advice was issued for other waters including Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, and several rivers due to PFOS contamination.

NY Health Launches Statewide Anti-Vaping Campaign for Youth

The New York State Department of Health has launched a statewide anti-vaping public awareness campaign targeting teens, young adults, and parents. The initiative, running through April 26, 2026, aims to educate on vaping risks and promote the 'DropTheVape' text support program for quitting nicotine products.

NY Landmarks Lit Purple for International Epilepsy Day

The New York State Department of Health announced that 16 state landmarks were lit purple on March 26, 2026, for International Epilepsy Day. This initiative honors the estimated 215,000 New Yorkers living with epilepsy and raises awareness for the condition.