Bill > A04878

This bill establishes a framework for mental health clubhouses across New York State, defining them as specialized community-based facilities that support individuals with serious mental illness. These clubhouses are characterized by a therapeutic approach that emphasizes purposeful engagement, mutual support, and work-based relationships, offering members voluntary, free services that help address psychosocial needs and social determinants of health. The bill requires the Office of Mental Health to develop a statewide implementation plan within one year, ensuring clubhouses are established near public transportation and potentially offering virtual programming for rural areas. Clubhouses must be accredited or working towards accreditation and will be required to submit comprehensive biennial reports detailing membership statistics, employment and housing outcomes, and crisis intervention efforts. The Office of Mental Health will conduct regular audits to ensure compliance, with the goal of creating a supportive, non-clinical environment that helps members build skills, pursue employment, access healthcare and housing, and ultimately support their mental health recovery through community-based, strengths-focused programming.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4878