Provides that, to the extent practicable, any incarcerated individual who is receiving mental health services or participating in a mental health program shall not have the time spent participating in such mental health services or programs deducted from any other activity time such incarcerated individual receives.
Summary
Bill S05123 amends the correction law in New York to ensure that incarcerated individuals receiving mental health services or participating in mental health programs are not penalized by having the time spent on these services deducted from their overall activity time. This means that the time dedicated to mental health care will be treated equally with other activities such as exercise, meals, and educational programs, thereby promoting better mental health care access for inmates.
Impact
The bill aims to enhance the mental health support system within correctional facilities by providing clearer guidelines on how time spent in mental health services is accounted for. This change is expected to improve the overall well-being of incarcerated individuals, as it encourages participation in mental health programs without the fear of losing time allocated for other essential activities. It may also lead to changes in how correctional facilities structure their programs and schedules to accommodate this new requirement.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill S05123 appears to be generally positive, as it addresses a critical need for mental health services in correctional settings. However, there may be concerns from some stakeholders regarding the practical implementation of this bill and how it may affect the scheduling of other activities within the correctional facilities.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise from correctional facility administrators who could express concerns about the logistical challenges of implementing this bill. They might argue that ensuring sufficient time for mental health services without affecting other activities could strain resources and scheduling. Advocates for incarcerated individuals, on the other hand, are likely to support the bill, emphasizing the importance of mental health care access.
Requires mental health services for incarcerated individuals with mental health issues related to the trauma of incarceration upon reentry and reintegration into society upon release.
A BILL for an Act to provide an appropriation to the department of health and human services for mental health services for incarcerated individuals; and to provide for a report.
A BILL for an Act to provide an appropriation to the department of health and human services for mental health services for incarcerated individuals; and to provide for a report.
Requires mental health services for incarcerated individuals with mental health issues related to the trauma of incarceration upon reentry and reintegration into society upon release.
Requires mental health services for incarcerated individuals with mental health issues related to the trauma of incarceration upon reentry and reintegration into society upon release.
Prohibits participation in torture of incarcerated individuals by health professionals; prohibits a health care professional from engaging, assisting or planning the torture of an incarcerated individual; requires health care professionals to report torture.
Prohibits participation in torture of incarcerated individuals by health professionals; prohibits a health care professional from engaging, assisting or planning the torture of an incarcerated individual; requires health care professionals to report torture.