Bill > S08429

This bill amends the New York Mental Hygiene Law to allow providers of services with certain operating certificates to employ or contract with applied behavior analysts (ABAs) and mental health counselors. Specifically, the bill enables providers who currently hold operating certificates for services related to developmental disabilities to hire or engage professionals who are licensed or certified in applied behavior analysis (under Education Law Article 167) and mental health counseling (under Education Law Section 8402). Applied behavior analysis is a therapeutic approach that uses behavioral principles to improve specific behaviors, often used in treating developmental disabilities like autism. Mental health counselors provide professional counseling services to support individuals' mental health and emotional well-being. The bill aims to expand the professional resources available to service providers working with individuals with developmental disabilities by allowing them to more readily access these specialized professionals. The legislation will take effect immediately upon enactment.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8429