Bill > S04013

This bill establishes a comprehensive peer support program specifically designed for women veterans in New York State. The bill defines "peer support services" as treatment and recovery services for mental illness, alcohol abuse, substance abuse, and chemical dependence, delivered by a certified peer counselor who is a veteran. A veteran peer counselor is defined as someone who has served in active military service and been honorably discharged. The program will be developed collaboratively by the commissioners of mental hygiene, addiction services, and veterans' services, and will offer a wide range of support services including peer counseling for mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse counseling, family support, domestic violence assistance, child care guidance, physical health resources, and legal issue support. The bill also outlines a process for training and credentialing veteran peer counselors, requiring the establishment of minimum qualifications and procedures for issuing, suspending, or revoking credentials based on factors such as completed training courses, on-the-job experience in mental health or substance abuse counseling, and other relevant credentials. The program will take effect one year after becoming law, with preparatory regulatory work allowed to begin immediately.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4013