Bill > A05764

This bill replaces stigmatizing language referring to people with substance use disorders, mental health disorders, or co-occurring disorders throughout multiple New York state laws. Specifically, the bill changes terms like "addict", "drug abuser", and "addiction" to more person-first, respectful language such as "person with a substance use disorder", "person with a mental health disorder", and "person in recovery". These changes apply to numerous sections of law, including judiciary, public health, county, education, social services, and other legal codes. The modifications are intended to reduce stigma and recognize that individuals struggling with substance use or mental health challenges are people first, whose medical conditions do not define their entire identity. The bill mandates that across all New York state laws, rules, regulations, and resolutions, these person-first terms should be used in place of previous more pejorative terminology, while maintaining the same legal force and effect. The changes reflect a more compassionate and medically accurate approach to discussing mental health and substance use challenges, emphasizing that these are health conditions that people experience rather than inherent personal characteristics.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5764