Bill > A02440

This bill modifies the criminal procedure law to require institutions housing defendants who have been found not responsible for a crime due to mental disease or defect to take specific actions during discharge. Specifically, when a local criminal court has issued a final order of observation, the institution must make a "single point of access referral" for the defendant with the appropriate agency in the defendant's last known county of residence prior to discharge. The bill also mandates that these institutions maintain records of discharge planning and single point of access referrals, and submit de-identified biannual reports to the commissioner and chief administrative judge of the courts. Additionally, when the defendant is in the custody of the commissioner, the commissioner or their designee must certify compliance with these referral provisions to the court upon discharge. The goal appears to be ensuring continuity of care and support for individuals with mental health challenges who have been involved in the criminal justice system by connecting them with local support services before they are released. The bill will take effect 90 days after becoming law.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2440