Bill > S08618

This bill establishes a transportation assistance voucher demonstration program to help New Yorkers with limited income access outpatient mental health and substance use disorder services by providing transportation support. The program will offer digital vouchers or transit passes to individuals with household incomes at or below 250% of the federal poverty level who are not Medicaid recipients and lack affordable transportation to scheduled behavioral health appointments. Administered by the Office of Mental Health in consultation with the Office of Addiction Services and Supports, the program will cover various transportation options like public transit, taxis, rideshares, and other approved modes of transportation. Participants must be attending outpatient programs licensed or funded by these state offices and cannot already receive non-emergency medical transportation benefits. The program aims to reduce missed appointments, prevent psychiatric crises, and improve overall behavioral health outcomes. The implementing agencies will collect data on program participation and effectiveness, and submit annual reports to the governor and legislature. Funding can come from state appropriations, federal funds, local contributions, or private grants, though the bill explicitly states that the program does not create an entitlement to transportation assistance. All participant information will be kept confidential according to state and federal laws, and the program will take effect 180 days after becoming law.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8618