Bill > S03979

This bill establishes a new framework for peer crisis diversion homes within the mental hygiene law, designed to provide an alternative to traditional hospital-based mental health crisis care. The bill requires the commissioner of mental health to establish or contract for at least six peer crisis diversion homes within one year, with three located in urban settings and three in rural communities. These homes will be unique in that they are recipient-run, meaning they are governed by current or former mental health service recipients. The homes will offer short-term, voluntary residential services for adults experiencing behavioral health challenges who do not require hospitalization, staffed by peer support specialists who have personally experienced and recovered from urgent behavioral health needs. These homes will provide 24-hour support, therapeutic services, and focus on helping residents develop daily living skills and community reintegration. The bill specifies that these homes will use interpersonal relationships and community connections as primary care modalities, offer services regardless of income, and aim to divert individuals from more intensive hospital-based care. Additionally, the bill mandates specific training for peer support specialists, including de-escalation techniques, cultural competency, and recovery process understanding, and requires ongoing consultation with community stakeholders to ensure the homes effectively support residents' recovery and community reintegration.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3979