Bill > A05135

This bill amends the New York Social Services Law to require that all child protective services employees be provided with supportive mental health services and resources. Specifically, the bill mandates that these employees receive comprehensive mental health support, including specialized treatments like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which is a psychotherapy technique used to help people process traumatic memories. The bill also covers vicarious and secondary trauma treatment, recognizing that child protective services workers are frequently exposed to emotionally challenging and potentially traumatizing situations through their work with vulnerable children and families. By offering therapy, counseling, and informational resources, the legislation aims to support the mental health and overall wellbeing of these critical front-line social service professionals. The bill would take effect immediately upon enactment, ensuring prompt implementation of these supportive mental health services.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5135