Bill > S02406

This bill establishes a new type of residential treatment facility as an alternative to incarceration for individuals with serious mental illness who have been accused of felony-level crimes. The facilities would be designated by the commissioner and licensed by the office of mental health, potentially operated by public or private non-profit organizations. Admission would require voluntary and informed consent from the individual, involving a formal agreement between the presiding judge, the person with mental illness (who must be represented by counsel), and the county prosecutor. The agreement would include provisions such as wearing a GPS device when leaving the facility, and a commitment from prosecutors not to pursue incarceration if the treatment is successfully completed. The facilities would provide comprehensive care including medication management, psychiatric treatment, substance use disorder support, and life skills training in a safe environment. The bill also mandates that the commissioner work with addiction services to address co-occurring disorders and requires the development of specific licensure rules within nine months of the bill's effective date. Additionally, the commissioner is tasked with seeking federal financial participation for the program's implementation.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S2406