Bill > S04969

This bill requires general hospitals in New York to develop comprehensive policies and procedures for addressing firearm violence victims, defined as individuals with injuries from gun discharges such as bullet or gunshot wounds. Hospitals must create written protocols for identifying, assessing, treating, and referring firearm violence victims, and establish ongoing training programs for clinical and security personnel about these protocols. Each hospital must designate a staff member to coordinate psychiatric services for victims. When a confirmed or suspected firearm violence victim is discharged, the hospital must inform them about available psychiatric services and, if requested, help initiate those services. The state commissioner of health is required to develop model policies in consultation with the New York state firearm violence research institute, and to provide hospitals with a list of local psychiatric service organizations specializing in firearm violence victim assistance. The bill aims to provide structured, compassionate mental health support for individuals who have experienced traumatic gun-related injuries, recognizing the potential psychological impact of such events. The law will take effect 90 days after being signed.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4969