Bill > A05484

This bill establishes a comprehensive statewide person-centered mental health services work group designed to improve mental health planning and outcomes across New York State. The work group will consist of 42 members, including 10 statewide members (appointed by legislative leaders and the governor), 4 ex officio members from key state health agencies, and 28 regional representatives from nine defined geographical regions. Importantly, the membership must reflect the racial and ethnic diversity of mental health service users, and a significant portion of members will have lived experience with public health, housing, legal, and mental health systems. The work group's key responsibilities include developing recommendations for a regional and statewide mental health planning system, creating a public clearinghouse of best practices, establishing an annual budgeting system that prioritizes regional needs, and conducting public hearings to gather community input. By November 1, 2026, the group must submit a detailed report to the governor and legislature with specific recommendations for reforming the state's local mental health planning process. The bill emphasizes person-centered, prevention-first approaches and aims to create a more integrated, transparent, and inclusive mental health service system that prioritizes community needs and lived experiences.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5484