Bill > S02033

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to the New York State Constitution that elevates mental health to the same level of importance as physical health in state policy. Specifically, the bill modifies two sections of Article 17 to explicitly include mental health as a matter of public concern. The changes replace permissive language like "may" with mandatory language like "shall", requiring state and local authorities to proactively provide care and treatment for individuals with mental disorders. The bill also mandates that the head of the Department of Mental Hygiene must visit and inspect both public and private institutions that care for individuals with mental health conditions. This constitutional amendment signifies a formal recognition of mental health as a critical public health issue and creates a stronger legal obligation for the state to support mental health services. The proposed amendment will be referred to the first regular legislative session after the next general election and will be published for three months prior to that election, following standard constitutional amendment procedures.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S2033