Bill > S01827

This bill establishes a health care worker peer support program by creating a new section in the mental hygiene law that provides grants to eligible entities to establish peer-to-peer mental health support programs specifically for health care workers. The program will be administered by the commissioner, who will develop standards for initial and continued training of volunteer peer supporters, focusing on mental health issues like post-traumatic stress disorder and suicide prevention. Eligible entities must apply to the commissioner with a prescribed application, and grants can be awarded up to $250,000 per entity. Importantly, the bill requires strict confidentiality, prohibiting grant recipients from maintaining personal records or reporting identifying information about health care workers seeking support. The bill is accompanied by a $10 million appropriation from the state treasury to fund the program, and it is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1827