Bill > A04159

This bill amends the New York Correction Law to prohibit correctional facilities from unreasonably denying entry to peer support advocates who have specific certifications or licenses and are providing substance use disorder treatment and transition services. Specifically, these advocates must be certified or licensed by a state agency, the New York certification board, or a nationally recognized accrediting agency, and they cannot be blocked from entering correctional facilities solely because of their own prior history of incarceration. The bill recognizes the valuable role of peer support advocates in helping individuals with substance use disorders, particularly in the context of medication-assisted treatment and transition services. By preventing facilities from automatically excluding advocates based on their personal criminal history, the bill aims to support more comprehensive and empathetic rehabilitation efforts. The law will take effect 60 days after it is signed, with immediate authorization for preparing necessary regulatory implementation.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4159