Establishes a crisis intervention team training demonstration program; establishes a crisis intervention team training program advisory committee and crisis intervention team training fund.
Summary
Bill S05953 aims to establish a crisis intervention team (CIT) training program in New York to assist law enforcement officers in effectively responding to situations involving individuals with mental health issues and substance abuse problems. The bill mandates the creation of a CIT training program coordinator position within the Office of Mental Health, who will collaborate with law enforcement agencies to provide necessary training and support. Additionally, the bill establishes a CIT training fund to finance the program through state and federal resources, ensuring that law enforcement agencies can access training and community coordination resources effectively.
The legislation also creates a CIT training program advisory committee composed of various stakeholders, including mental health service consumers, family members, and law enforcement representatives. This committee will oversee the implementation of the training program, review its effectiveness, and make recommendations for improvements. The bill outlines specific goals for the CIT program, such as reducing the need for arrests in mental health crises, providing immediate responses by trained officers, and ensuring that individuals in crisis receive appropriate care rather than being incarcerated.
The CIT program is designed to last for five years, after which its effectiveness will be assessed. The bill aims to enhance the collaboration between law enforcement and mental health services, ultimately improving outcomes for individuals experiencing mental health crises. It also emphasizes the importance of community involvement and the establishment of therapeutic alternatives to traditional law enforcement responses.
Overall, S05953 seeks to create a structured and supportive framework for law enforcement officers to handle mental health crises more effectively, thereby addressing a critical gap in current law enforcement training and response strategies.
Impact
If enacted, Bill S05953 will significantly impact state laws related to mental health and law enforcement by formalizing the training and response protocols for crisis situations involving individuals with mental health issues. It will amend the mental hygiene law, state finance law, and general municipal law to establish a dedicated training program and funding mechanisms. This will likely lead to improved interactions between law enforcement and individuals in crisis, reducing the reliance on incarceration and promoting mental health treatment alternatives. The bill also aims to enhance the accountability and effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in handling such sensitive situations.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding Bill S05953 appears to be supportive, as it addresses a pressing need for better training and resources for law enforcement in dealing with mental health crises. Discussions indicate a recognition of the importance of collaboration between mental health services and law enforcement, with stakeholders expressing optimism about the potential benefits of the CIT program. However, there may be some concerns regarding the implementation and funding of the program, which could affect its overall effectiveness.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise around the adequacy of funding for the CIT training program and the extent of collaboration required between various agencies. Some stakeholders may question whether the proposed budget of up to one million dollars from the state general fund will be sufficient to meet the training and coordination needs of all law enforcement agencies. Additionally, there may be differing opinions on the effectiveness of the training methods and the long-term sustainability of the program beyond its initial five-year period.
Establishing the mental health intervention team program in the Kansas department for aging and disability services in state statute and providing incentives for coordination between school districts, qualified schools and mental health intervention team providers.