Two weeks ago, the outlook for this legislative update appeared considerably different. The bill to modernize the chiropractic scope of practice in New York was moving steadily forward in the NYS Assembly. After passing unanimously through the Assembly Higher Education, Codes, and Ways and Means Committees, the Assembly Rules Committee was its sole remaining hurdle to reaching a floor vote in the legislature's lower house.
Then things changed abruptly.
In the final 3 days of the 2026 legislative session, the Medical Society of the State of NY (MSSNY), apparently surprised and alarmed by the progress A4706-C was making, began a feverish push to prevent it from moving in the Senate, despite the bill having passed the Senate last year. In addition to MSSNY, there were three other specialty medical groups that all issued memos in opposition and used all of their resources to oppose our legislation.
As sometimes happens when comprehensive, complex policy proposals have competing interests, a few specious concerns about the bill's intent and impact were enough to create a roadblock. Our legislative counsel, Amy Kellogg, worked tirelessly and incredibly well to address questions, provide clarification, and engage with legislators and sponsors, but the odds were against her.
While this outcome is disappointing, it should not overshadow the substantial progress we made this year. Achieving unanimous support through multiple Assembly committees reflects growing recognition among policymakers of the important role chiropractic physicians play in New York's healthcare system. Every legislative effort builds a stronger foundation for future success, and we will remain focused on this bill and push for final passage in the next legislative session.