Bill > A00988

This bill requires the New York Office of Mental Health to organize statewide forums and listening sessions in areas experiencing high suicide rates, high suicide attempt frequencies, or other suicide-related risk factors, with a specific focus on high-risk and potentially underserved populations. These populations include Latina and Latino adolescents, Black youth, rural community residents, veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and other groups deemed at high risk by the office. The bill allows the office to collaborate with state agencies, advocacy groups, and associations to facilitate these forums and listening sessions. Additionally, the office must document and include its findings and recommendations from these sessions in its existing statutory reporting requirements. The purpose of these forums is to help the office better understand and address mental health challenges and suicide prevention strategies for vulnerable populations. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A988