Bill > S01797

This bill establishes a new Office of Addiction and Mental Health Services by integrating the existing Office of Mental Health and Office of Addiction Services and Supports. The new office will focus on providing comprehensive, integrated care for individuals with mental health diagnoses, substance use disorders, or both. Key provisions include creating a unified leadership structure with a commissioner and two deputy commissioners (one for addiction services and one for mental health services), establishing a seven-member standing advisory committee appointed by various state leaders, and mandating the development of integrated service plans. The bill updates terminology throughout the mental hygiene law, replacing outdated language about "mental illness" with "mental health diagnosis" and "substance abuse" with "substance use disorder." The new office will be responsible for coordinating prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and recovery services, with a goal of ensuring that individuals with multiple diagnoses receive comprehensive care. The integration is set to be fully implemented by January 1, 2026, and any financial savings from the consolidation must be reinvested in services. Additionally, the bill requires an annual report detailing expenditures for addiction and mental health services, and ensures that existing employees will be transferred to the new office without losing their current status or rights.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1797