Relates to establishing a crisis intervention demonstration program.
Impact
The bill is expected to have a profound impact on state laws related to mental health and public safety. Through the creation of a Crisis Intervention Team Training Fund, it proposes the allocation of state resources, which may include up to one million dollars from the state general fund, to support the training and operational costs associated with implementing these specialized response teams. Additionally, it aims to foster collaboration between mental health service providers and law enforcement agencies, promoting a more compassionate approach to crisis situations.
Summary
Bill S07444 introduces a Crisis Intervention Team Demonstration Program in New York to enhance law enforcement responses to mental health crises. This initiative aims to provide focused training for police officers in cities with populations exceeding one million, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle situations involving individuals with mental health issues or substance abuse problems. The bill establishes criteria for the development of crisis intervention teams and mandates comprehensive training for all relevant personnel, emphasizing a minimum of forty hours dedicated to mental health education.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding S07444 include concerns over the adequacy of funding and the potential effectiveness of the training programs. Critics argue that while the bill provides a framework for addressing mental health crises, the success of such initiatives largely hinges on the commitment of local law enforcement agencies to engage in active and ongoing collaboration with mental health professionals. There is also debate on the perceived effectiveness of these programs, as some advocate for alternative methods of addressing mental health issues beyond law enforcement interventions. Moreover, the bill's provision for a five-year expiration may raise concerns regarding the sustainability of the funding and the long-term commitment to these crucial programs.
Establishes a crisis intervention team training demonstration program; establishes a crisis intervention team training program advisory committee and crisis intervention team training fund.
Establishes certain statewide literacy education programs including standards for an early education program, statewide parents as teachers program, a reading program to provide direct support for and intervention in intensive reading intervention services, and the district reading intervention program.
Relates to providing ten million dollars annually to be used for the provision of grants related to the expansion and support of crisis intervention services and diversion programs.
Relating to the establishment of the office of community violence intervention and prevention within the Department of State Health Services and a grant program for violence intervention and prevention services.
Relating to the establishment of the office of community violence intervention and prevention within the Department of State Health Services and a grant program for violence intervention and prevention services.
Relating to the establishment of the office of community violence intervention and prevention within the Department of State Health Services and a grant program for violence intervention and prevention services.
Relating to the establishment of the office of community violence intervention and prevention within the Department of State Health Services and a grant program for violence intervention and prevention services.