New York Cancer Action Center

Following today’s health-Medicaid budget hearing, more than a dozen cancer survivors and ACS CAN advocates gathered at the New York State Capitol to call on lawmakers to preserve access to biomarker testing, a priority shared by over 100 organizations statewide . Advocates also expressed hope that the one‑house and final budgets will include meaningful investments in cancer prevention and early detection.

At the start of the new mayoral administration and the 2026 New York City Council term, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is calling on city leaders to join the fight against cancer by embracing three policy priorities that will help more New Yorkers prevent cancer, detect it early and get connected to care as soon as possible. This starts with expanding access to paid time off for cancer screening, investing in patient navigation services and ending the sale of menthol cigarettes.

As New York State’s 2026 legislative session begins and Governor Hochul prepares to deliver her State of the State address, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is calling on lawmakers to seize both immediate and long-term opportunities to ease the burden of cancer. Advocates are urging state leaders to prioritize affordability and ensure continued progress in the fight against this disease.