New York Assembly Bill K00264

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/25/25
• Refer: 3/25/25
• Passed: 3/26/25

Caption

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 2025, as Recovery Month in the State of New York

Summary

This resolution memorializes Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 2025 as Recovery Month in New York State, in conjunction with the national observance sponsored by SAMHSA. The resolution describes Recovery Month as an annual effort to raise awareness of substance use treatment, mental health services, and evidence-based recovery practices, while celebrating people in recovery and the professionals and community members who support them. The measure traces the history of Recovery Month from its origins as Treatment Works! Month in 1989 to its later expansion to include alcohol and drug addiction recovery and, eventually, mental illness. It emphasizes that recovery is possible, that prevention and treatment are effective, and that behavioral health is an essential part of overall health. The resolution is ceremonial and declaratory rather than regulatory; it does not create new programs, funding, or legal obligations, but instead urges the Governor to issue a proclamation recognizing the month.

Impact

The bill has no direct effect on state statutes, agency authority, or private rights. Its practical impact is symbolic: it would add New York State recognition to a national awareness campaign focused on addiction recovery, mental health, prevention, treatment, and recovery services. Any legal or administrative effect would be limited to the Governor’s proclamation and associated public awareness efforts.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment reflected in the bill text is strongly supportive and celebratory. It presents Recovery Month as a positive public awareness observance that honors people in recovery, treatment providers, and community support networks, and it frames the issue in terms of hope, health, and public benefit. No opposition is reflected in the available record, and there are no recorded committee transcripts or votes indicating controversy.

Contention

There is no documented contention in the available materials. Because the resolution is honorary and nonbinding, it does not appear to raise fiscal, regulatory, or policy disputes. The only substantive emphasis is on the importance of recognizing substance use and mental health recovery, which is presented as broadly beneficial and noncontroversial.