Bill > A00185

This bill establishes a new program for peer crisis diversion homes, which are home-like environments designed to provide short-term, voluntary support for adults experiencing behavioral health challenges who do not require hospitalization. The bill requires the commissioner of mental health to establish or contract for at least six such homes within one year, with three located in urban settings and three in rural communities. These homes will be staffed by peer support specialists—individuals who have personally experienced and recovered from urgent behavioral health needs—and will offer 24-hour support, including therapeutic services, daily living skill assistance, and community reintegration support. The homes will focus on relationship-building, personal choice, and diverting individuals from more intensive hospital-based care by providing a supportive, temporary residence where people can begin their recovery process. Each home will be governed by current or former mental health service recipients and will be required to employ a licensed clinician and psychiatric consultant. The bill also mandates that these homes consult with community stakeholders, participate in local service planning, and help residents connect with ongoing care providers. The goal is to create a more compassionate, peer-driven approach to mental health crisis intervention that emphasizes recovery and community integration.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A185