Establishes four mental health coordinators to provide mental health support and education for members of law enforcement; establishes that coordinators shall provide training, assistance, reporting and set standards for continuing mental health education.
NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT OF LEGISLATION submitted in accordance with Assembly Rule III, Sec 1(f)
BILL NUMBER: A3514
SPONSOR: Burke TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the executive law, in relation to law enforcement mental
health coordinators
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
To create a statewide network of four mental health coordinators who are
law enforcement officers on special assignment to foster comprehensive
mental health and wellness access and awareness for officers.
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 establishes the mental health coordinator positions to be
appointed by the Governor and outlines associated responsibili-
ties.Section 2 sets the effective date.
JUSTIFICATION:
More law enforcement officers lose their lives to suicide than in the
line of duty. According to BlueHelp, New York leads the nation in law
enforcement and correctional officer suicides. Between 2019 and 2024,
116 officers tragically took their own lives. Due to the stresses and
nature of the job, suicide has become an occupational risk of the
profession. Recognizing this risk, resources must be allocated and
utilized by this group of public servants to ensure they remain at their
best. Mental health services for law enforcement officers across the
state are sporadic and scarce in certain pockets of the state. Creating
this network of mental health coordinators, who themselves are law
enforcement officers, will work to build comprehensive and sustainable
mental health resources, information, and awareness for officers state-
wide. Each coordinator will be responsible for a geographic region
aligned with state troop jurisdictions. They will also collaborate with
other coordinators to develop best practices and strategies. The coordi-
nators will work in conjunction with the Division of Mental Health as
well as existing peer support programs to be supported by and grow their
expertise.
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
2021-2022: A9291 referred to governmental operations
02/03/23 referred to governmental operations
01/03/24 referred to governmental operations
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:
To be determined.
EFFECTIVE DATE:
Immediately
