Bill > A04826

This bill directs the commissioner of the Office of Mental Health and the director of the State Office for the Aging to establish a mental home health services program specifically designed for older adults. The program aims to improve access to mental health services, particularly for those who may have experienced mental health challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic or who have difficulty accessing in-person mental health professionals. The program will provide up to five free mental home health assessments, services, and visits annually, focusing on acute crisis response, mental health assessment, and initiating care to reduce barriers to long-term mental health treatment. By August 1, 2026, the offices are required to partner with a vendor (selected through a competitive bidding process) to create or utilize an existing website or web-based application that will serve as a portal for aging individuals and providers to access and facilitate these mental health services. The bill will take effect 120 days after becoming law.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4826