Bill > A08580

This bill requires general hospitals in New York to develop comprehensive policies and procedures for addressing firearm violence, defined as any injury caused by the discharge of a gun or firearm. Specifically, hospitals must create written protocols for identifying, assessing, treating, and referring victims of firearm violence, and implement ongoing training programs for clinical and security personnel. Each hospital must designate a staff member to coordinate psychiatric services for firearm violence victims. When a patient is discharged after receiving treatment for a firearm-related injury, the hospital must inform them about available psychiatric services and, if requested, help initiate those services. The state's health commissioner is tasked with creating model policies and regulations for this initiative, which will involve consulting with the New York state firearm violence research institute to develop guidelines and identify psychiatric service organizations in each hospital's geographic area. The bill aims to provide comprehensive mental health support for individuals who have experienced firearm-related trauma, recognizing the potential psychological impact of such incidents.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8580