Bill > A05197

This bill establishes an LGBTQ+ youth and young adult suicide prevention task force to address mental health challenges and high suicide rates among LGBTQ+ individuals aged up to 24 in New York State. The task force will consist of seven members appointed by the governor, senate president, assembly speaker, and health commissioner, all of whom must have expertise in mental health and knowledge about LGBTQ+ youth. The members will serve for two years and are required to study current mental health practices and suicide prevention efforts, recommend improvements, and investigate reasons for high suicide rates among LGBTQ+ youth. The task force will meet at least quarterly, can establish advisory committees, and may request studies or information from state agencies. Members will not be compensated but will be reimbursed for expenses. The task force is required to submit a preliminary report 13 months after the act's effective date and a final report 22 months after, including legislative proposals. The bill will take effect 60 days after becoming law and will automatically expire two years later, ensuring a time-limited, focused approach to addressing this critical issue.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5197