New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A05894

Introduced
2/24/25  
Refer
2/24/25  
Report Pass
5/28/25  
Refer
5/28/25  
Report Pass
5/29/25  
Engrossed
5/29/25  

Caption

Defines mental health practitioners with diagnostic authority for the purposes of providing services under the workers' compensation law; includes such practitioners as providers.

Impact

The enactment of A05894 is expected to significantly enhance the role of mental health practitioners in the treatment and management of workplace-related injuries and stress conditions. By establishing a clear definition and legal recognition of these practitioners, the bill facilitates a more holistic approach to employee care. This could lead to improved recovery outcomes and potentially lower long-term healthcare costs for employers by addressing mental health issues early through proper diagnosis and treatment.

Summary

Bill A05894 proposes amendments to New York's workers' compensation law, specifically focusing on the definition and inclusion of mental health practitioners with diagnostic authority within the framework of worker's compensation services. The bill aims to formally recognize these practitioners as providers under the existing workers' compensation system, thereby expanding access to mental health care for injured workers. The inclusion of licensed mental health professionals ensures that individuals requiring psychological support can receive necessary evaluations and treatments as part of their compensation claims.

Contention

While A05894 aims to improve mental health care accessibility for workers, there may be points of contention regarding the qualifications and oversight of practitioners included under this new definition. Stakeholders in the mental health field might express concerns over ensuring that only qualified professionals are included, particularly in relation to diagnostic authority. Additionally, discussions surrounding the adequacy of mental health services within the workers' compensation system could arise, as advocates for mental health care seek to ensure comprehensive support and coverage for mental health needs.

Companion Bills

NY S06912

Same As Defines mental health practitioners with diagnostic authority for the purposes of providing services under the workers' compensation law; includes such practitioners as providers.

Previously Filed As

NY S04043

Includes nurse practitioners as a provider of services for purposes of collaborative drug therapy management; makes the authorization for pharmacists to perform such management permanent.

NY A09702

Includes nurse practitioners as a provider of services for purposes of collaborative drug therapy management; makes the authorization for pharmacists to perform such management permanent.

NY S05389

Requires clinical experience for certain mental health practitioners; allows such practitioners to make assessment-based treatment plans; makes related provisions.

NY S08350

Establishes a school-based mental health loan repayment program to aid youth mental health practitioners; provides for awards up to thirty thousand dollars to eligible applicants who agree to four years of service in underserved schools.

NY S02124

Allows physician assistants to serve as primary care practitioners for purposes of Medicaid managed care plans.

NY A07725

Allows physician assistants to serve as primary care practitioners for purposes of Medicaid managed care plans.

NY A02033

Provides for the licensure of school psychology practitioners; authorizes the use of the title "licensed school psychology practitioner" to licensed or exempt individuals; defines practice of licensed school psychology practitioners; sets forth requirements for professional licensure (including educational attainment, experience, exam and fee); provides for issuance of limited permits under specified circumstances; identifies exempt persons.

NY S03036

Provides for the licensure of school psychology practitioners; authorizes the use of the title "licensed school psychology practitioner" to licensed or exempt individuals; defines practice of licensed school psychology practitioners; sets forth requirements for professional licensure (including educational attainment, experience, exam and fee); provides for issuance of limited permits under specified circumstances; identifies exempt persons.

NY A07187

Permits physician assistants to order home care services and clarify nurse practitioners' authority to order home care services.

NY A06934

Expands the scope of practice of psychiatric nurse practitioners; makes conforming changes in the mental hygiene law.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.