Bill > A09409

This bill establishes a three-year pilot program called "Topher's Law" to provide intensive addiction and mental health integrated services to individuals with significant and complex treatment histories. The program will create two demonstration projects, one in a rural area and one in an urban setting, offering services such as mental health counseling, peer support, and transportation assistance, primarily delivered in the individual's community or home. Within one year after the program's conclusion, the commissioner of the Office of Addiction Services and Supports must submit a comprehensive written evaluation to state legislative leaders, detailing the program's effectiveness, identifying best practices, and recommending whether the pilot program should be continued or expanded. The evaluation will be publicly available on the office's website. The bill will take effect on April 1, 2026, and will automatically be repealed 90 days after the submission of the evaluation report, ensuring a structured approach to testing and potentially implementing innovative integrated mental health and addiction treatment services.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A9409