Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) joined a press conference today, June 5, 2023, in support of legislation that mandates health insurance plans and Medicaid to include financial relief for biomarker testing, ensuring that such tests are provided for the diagnosis, treatment, effective management or continuous monitoring of a patient's illness or medical condition, as long as there is medical and scientific evidence supporting the use of these tests. Biomarker testing involves the identification of specific genes, proteins, and other substances in order to gather valuable information about cancer. These biomarkers are distinctive for each individual's cancer, forming a unique pattern.

“Our society has made substantial advancements in medicine including the use of biomarkers for early detection of cancer and other ailments. I am proud to support this bipartisan piece of legislation and stand with survivors of lifelong battles with cancer and other severe illnesses to pass this legislation which will make biomarker testing readily available for all New Yorkers. Denying access to modern day life saving medicine is not acceptable and we are determined to see this legislation approved,” said Slater

“We are super thankful for Assemblyman Matt Slater’s support of this bill to provide biomarker testing. Early detection saves lives as does having access to innovative personalized therapies that biomarker testing provides. Having coverage is crucial to cancer care,” said Kate Corsitto, the American Cancer Society’s senior development manager for the lower Hudson Valley. 

Slater acknowledged his grandmother, along with his daughter’s godmother, who are both cancer survivors, as well as one of his close friends who has recently achieved remission.