Bill > S05821

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 leadership and the governor, with at least three being peer or consumer representatives), 4 ex officio members from various state health agencies, and 28 regional representatives from nine designated geographic regions. Regional members must have lived experience with public health, housing, or justice systems. The group's primary responsibilities include developing regional and statewide mental health strategic goals that integrate behavioral and physical health, establishing a public clearinghouse of best practices, creating an annual budgeting system that prioritizes regional needs, and conducting public hearings to solicit community input. By November 1, 2026, the work group must submit recommendations to the governor and legislature for reforming the state's local mental health planning process, with a focus on ensuring consumer-informed and locally reflective approaches. The work group members will serve without compensation and are expected to reflect the racial and ethnic diversity of people using public health and mental health services, with a strong emphasis on including perspectives from individuals with direct experience in these systems.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5821