The New York State Appellate Court has rejected New York City’s condom distribution program as a violation of parental rights. The court ruled that condom distribution is a health service and not an educational program and therefore falls under state regulations requiring parental consent for any health or medical service.
A Brooklyn Tablet editorial (sent in by frequent contributor Bill Barry) hailed the decision as a victory for parents. It went on to note that while parental consent will be required for condoms, abortions will still be available without consent.
The editorial concludes:
“We hope that the court judgment is the proverbial foot in the door that will open to a more reasonable and responsible evaluation of the entire situation. Much has been made of the New York City condom policy being a national model. May the court ruling become a similar precedent.”
