New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S05491

Introduced
2/21/25  
Refer
2/21/25  

Caption

Establishes a mental wellness group pilot program to partner with insurance companies to facilitate group therapy sessions for children ages ten through eighteen.

Summary

Bill S05491 establishes a mental wellness group pilot program aimed at facilitating group therapy sessions for children aged ten to eighteen. The program will be implemented by partnering with regional insurance companies, which will be responsible for administering the program and providing necessary counseling services. The bill outlines the creation of mental wellness groups where children can actively participate in setting goals and addressing personal challenges, thereby promoting mental health and well-being among the youth.

Impact

The bill amends the mental hygiene law by introducing a new section that mandates the establishment of a pilot program within the office of mental health. This program will require insurance companies to offer group therapy sessions, thus potentially increasing access to mental health services for children in New York. It also sets forth a framework for collaboration between insurance companies, school districts, and local mental health organizations, which could enhance the overall mental health support system in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S05491 appears to be generally positive, as it addresses a critical need for mental health support among children and adolescents. However, there may be concerns regarding the implementation and effectiveness of the program, particularly in terms of insurance company involvement and the adequacy of funding for the proposed services.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the selection process for insurance companies and the criteria for evaluating their performance in administering the program. Some stakeholders may question whether the pilot program will effectively meet the diverse needs of children across different regions, and there may be differing opinions on the adequacy of funding provided through competitive grants.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ S3453

Establishes pilot program in DOE to use therapy dogs in public elementary school wellness programs.

NJ A4204

Establishes pilot program in DOE to use therapy dogs in public elementary school wellness programs.

NY S09101

Establishes a program to promote the mental health and wellness of teachers and staff in public schools through grants.

NY S10327

Establishes a pilot program in partnership with a nonprofit organization to improve equity and efficiency in housing for people with developmental disabilities by encouraging shared housing.

NY A08020

Establishes a pilot program in partnership with a nonprofit organization to improve equity and efficiency in housing for people with developmental disabilities by encouraging shared housing.

LA HB904

Establishes guidelines for the regulation of captive insurance companies and risk retention groups

MN SF3123

State employee group insurance program utilization review pilot program establishment

TX HB1043

Relating to a study by the General Land Office in partnership with a working group consisting of the Texas Department of Insurance, Department of Information Resources, and other entities on the establishment and implementation of a distributed ledger-based title registry pilot program.

FL H0655

Pet Insurance and Wellness Programs

MN HF2555

State employee group insurance program utilization review pilot program established, and reports required.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.