Creates statewide emergency and crisis response council to work in conjunction with the commissioners of mental health and addiction services to jointly approve emergency and crisis services plans submitted by local governments, and provide supports regarding the operation and financing of high-quality emergency and crisis services provided to persons experiencing a mental health, alcohol use, or substance use crisis.
Summary
Bill S03670, known as "Daniel's Law," aims to establish a statewide emergency and crisis response council in New York to enhance the provision of services for individuals experiencing mental health, alcohol use, or substance use crises. The bill mandates the development of comprehensive emergency and crisis services plans by local governments, which will include non-police, community-run crisis response teams that utilize peers and independent emergency medical technicians. The intent is to create a public health-based response that minimizes the need for law enforcement involvement and promotes appropriate treatment and support for individuals in crisis.
Impact
The bill amends the mental hygiene law to integrate a structured approach to crisis response services across New York State. It emphasizes the establishment of local comprehensive planning processes that involve community stakeholders, particularly peers with lived experience, to ensure that crisis responses are effective and culturally competent. The bill also provides for state funding to cover the operational costs of eligible crisis services, thereby enhancing the availability and quality of mental health support services statewide.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill S03670 appears to be positive, as evidenced by the unanimous support in the Senate Mental Health Committee, where it received 7 votes in favor with no opposition. Advocates for mental health reform have expressed optimism that the bill will lead to significant improvements in how crises are managed, reducing reliance on law enforcement and promoting better health outcomes for individuals in distress.
Contention
While the bill has garnered broad support, there may be concerns regarding the implementation of non-police crisis response teams, particularly in areas where law enforcement traditionally plays a significant role in crisis situations. Some stakeholders may worry about the adequacy of resources and training for these community-run teams to handle potentially volatile situations without police intervention. Additionally, there may be debates about the effectiveness of peer-led initiatives compared to traditional emergency response models.
Same As
Creates statewide emergency and crisis response council to work in conjunction with the commissioners of mental health and addiction services to jointly approve emergency and crisis services plans submitted by local governments, and provide supports regarding the operation and financing of high-quality emergency and crisis services provided to persons experiencing a mental health, alcohol use, or substance use crisis.
Creates statewide emergency and crisis response council to work in conjunction with the commissioners of mental health and addiction services to jointly approve emergency and crisis services plans submitted by local governments, and provide supports regarding the operation and financing of high-quality emergency and crisis services provided to persons experiencing a mental health, alcohol use, or substance use crisis.
Creates statewide emergency and crisis response council to work in conjunction with the commissioners of mental health and addiction services to jointly approve emergency and crisis services plans submitted by local governments, and provide supports regarding the operation and financing of high-quality emergency and crisis services provided to persons experiencing a mental health, alcohol use, or substance use crisis.
Creates statewide emergency and crisis response council to work in conjunction with the commissioners of mental health and addiction services to jointly approve emergency and crisis services plans submitted by local governments, and provide supports regarding the operation and financing of high-quality emergency and crisis services provided to persons experiencing a mental health, alcohol use, or substance use crisis.