Queens, NY (June 2026) – New York State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. announced the passage of his legislation, S.9063A, is ready to be considered by Governor Hochul to create a law that would formally recognize Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) within New York State’s statutory definition of eating disorders under the Mental Hygiene Law. 

ARFID is a serious eating disorder characterized by an extreme aversion to eating or certain foods, not related to body image concerns, distinguishing it from disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia. Often misunderstood as simple “picky eating,” ARFID can lead to significant nutritional deficiencies, developmental challenges, and emotional distress. The disorder is frequently associated with conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Addabbo’s legislation updates New York law to include ARFID in the statutory definition of eating disorders. The older version of the International Classification of Diseases does not recognize the condition.

“Families dealing with ARFID have struggled to gain recognition, understanding, and appropriate treatment for a very real and serious disorder,” said Addabbo. “By formally recognizing ARFID in state law, we are raising public awareness, improving access to care, and ensuring that individuals living with this condition are not dismissed. This legislation sends a message that New York recognizes the challenges these families face and is committed to supporting them,” Addabbo concluded.

The legislation is intended to help educate healthcare providers, educators, policymakers, and the public about ARFID while promoting access to appropriate resources and treatment options. Advocates have noted that a lack of awareness has led to delayed diagnoses and ineffective interventions for those affected by the disorder.

Connie Altamirano, Queens Community Leader and New York State ARFID Legislative Advocate, praised the bill’s passage.

“For too long, ARFID families have lived in the shadows of misunderstanding. Today, New York took a historic step into the light,” Altamirano stated. “As a Queens Community Leader and New York State ARFID Legislative Advocate, I fought to bring this issue forward because every child deserves to be seen, heard, and understood. This victory belongs to every child who struggled to eat, every parent who searched for answers, and every family who refused to give up hope. I am deeply grateful to Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. for introducing S.9063A and along with Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar helping to bring long-overdue recognition to ARFID in New York State. But this is only the beginning. I will continue to stand, fight, and advocate for New York State’s children and families until every child receives the support, understanding, and opportunities they deserve.”

“If my bill is signed into law, it will help bring ARFID out of the shadows and into the public conversation,” Addabbo said. “Recognition is the first step toward meaningful treatment, support, and better outcomes for those affected.”

The bill has passed both the Senate and Assembly and now awaits action by Governor Kathy Hochul.