Relates to the powers of the head of the office of mental health and the head of the office for people with developmental disabilities to promulgate rules regarding communications needs of non-English speakers
Impact
The provisions in A11023 require that essential documents, forms, and materials be made available not only in English but also in the twelve most common non-English languages spoken within New York State, as identified by census data. This amendment is anticipated to significantly improve service delivery for non-English speakers, ensuring that these individuals can access mental health services effectively. This could lead to better mental health outcomes and increased participation in health initiatives among diverse communities.
Summary
Bill A11023, introduced in the New York Assembly, aims to amend the mental hygiene law to enhance the accessibility of mental health services for non-English speaking individuals. Specifically, the bill empowers the head of the office of mental health and the head of the office for people with developmental disabilities to create rules and regulations that address the unique communication needs of these individuals. By incorporating provisions for language assistance services, the bill intends to facilitate better access to mental health services for those who struggle with language barriers.
Contention
While the bill is generally viewed as a positive step towards inclusivity, discussions may arise surrounding the implementation of the proposed regulations. Stakeholders might express concerns regarding the allocation of resources necessary to provide translation services and the potential impact on existing mental health service infrastructures. Moreover, there may be debate over the bureaucratic complexities involved in ensuring compliance among state-run and licensed facilities, especially in terms of consistency and quality of language assistance services.
Same As
Relates to the powers of the head of the office of mental health and the head of the office for people with developmental disabilities to promulgate rules regarding communications needs of non-English speakers seeking or receiving services; includes the provision of language services and documents in English and the twelve most common non-English languages spoken by individuals in New York State based on United States census data.
Relates to the powers of the head of the office of mental health and the head of the office for people with developmental disabilities to promulgate rules regarding communications needs of non-English speakers seeking or receiving services; includes the provision of language services and documents in English and the twelve most common non-English languages spoken by individuals in New York State based on United States census data.
Ensures that the office of mental health and the office for people with developmental disabilities provide materials to individuals in English and the top six languages spoken in the state.
Expands the use of body scanners to facilities operated by the office of mental health and the office for people with developmental disabilities; establishes alternative methods of screening.
Expands the use of body scanners to facilities operated by the office of mental health and the office for people with developmental disabilities; establishes alternative methods of screening.
Directs the office for people with developmental disabilities to conduct a study on the feasibility of establishing, implementing and expanding additional housing models that support independent living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities; requires the office to submit a report on such study to the governor, the temporary president of the senate and the speaker of the assembly.
Requires the developmental disabilities advisory council to submit an annual comprehensive summary of information about its activities to the office for people with developmental disabilities' website, in an accessible format.
Requires the developmental disabilities advisory council to submit an annual comprehensive summary of information about its activities to the office for people with developmental disabilities' website, in an accessible format.
Ensures that the office of mental health and the office for people with developmental disabilities provide materials to individuals in English and the top six languages spoken in the state.