Bill > S03928

This bill modifies the criminal procedure law to enhance mental health support for individuals charged with a crime by establishing more comprehensive procedures for mental health screening, assessment, and treatment. The bill expands the court's ability to refer individuals to pretrial services that include mental health treatment, and allows courts to use resources like mobile crisis response providers for mental health screening. Specifically, if a court determines an individual may have a mental illness likely to cause serious harm, the court can either permit the person to voluntarily seek hospital admission or issue a civil order for their removal to a hospital or psychiatric emergency program for evaluation. The bill also provides detailed protocols for hospital assessment, including provisions for discharge planning, supportive housing referrals, and aftercare. Importantly, the bill mandates that clinical records and information generated during this process remain confidential, cannot be used in criminal proceedings, and must be expunged upon case resolution. The bill aims to prioritize mental health intervention and support over punitive measures, recognizing that individuals with mental health challenges may need medical assistance rather than traditional criminal justice approaches.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3928