Bill > S07079

This bill establishes the "First Responder Peer Support Program Act" which creates a statewide grant program to provide peer-to-peer mental health support programs for first responders, including firefighters, police officers, 9-1-1 operators, emergency dispatchers, and emergency medical services personnel. The bill defines "eligible entities" as entities or county first responder peer programs that apply to the Commissioner of Mental Health to receive funding for initial and ongoing training on mental illness, trauma, and suicide prevention for first responder peer volunteers. The Commissioner is required to establish standards for the program, including training requirements and best practices, but is prohibited from requiring grant recipients to maintain records or report personal identifying information about first responders seeking support.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S7079