NY A03720

Establishes a Division of Minority Mental Health within the Office of Mental Health to address mental health needs of racial and ethnic minorities in New York State.

Division responsibilities include ensuring mental health programs are culturally and linguistically appropriate, serving as liaison and advocate on minority mental health matters, and assisting professional schools in developing training programs for minority mental health personnel.

Creates a Minority Mental Health Council consisting of the Commissioner (chair) and 14 appointed members: 4 by the Governor, 4 by the Senate President, 4 by the Assembly Speaker, 1 by the Senate Minority Leader, and 1 by the Assembly Minority Leader.

Council must conduct a study within 18 months examining rates of mental health service underutilization by racial and ethnic minorities, reasons for underutilization, and recommendations for improving culturally and linguistically appropriate services.

Council shall meet at least four times per year; members receive no compensation but may claim actual and necessary expenses; appointed members serve two-year terms.