Bill > S01080

This bill relates to hospitalization, care coordination, and assisted outpatient treatment for persons with mental illness. The Supportive Interventions Act aims to improve mental health care by expanding and clarifying the conditions under which individuals with severe mental illness can receive involuntary treatment. Key provisions include broadening the definition of "serious harm" to include psychiatric deterioration and self-neglect, allowing more flexible clinical evaluations of mental health risks, and expanding who can conduct examinations and initiate treatment. The bill introduces new roles like "qualified clinical examiners" and "qualified mental health professionals" who can assess and recommend treatment. It also enhances procedures for assisted outpatient treatment, including more comprehensive treatment planning, improved notification processes, and clearer guidelines for when and how involuntary treatment can be implemented. The legislation emphasizes a compassionate approach that prioritizes individual rights while recognizing that some people with severe mental illness may need mandated support to prevent serious harm to themselves or others. The bill requires the Office of Mental Health to provide training on these legal changes to various professionals and stakeholders, ensuring effective implementation of the new guidelines.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1080