NY A07719

Establishes a Division of Minority Mental Health within the Office of Mental Health to address cultural and linguistic gaps in mental health services for racial and ethnic minorities.

Division responsibilities include ensuring culturally and linguistically appropriate mental health programs, serving as liaison and advocate for minority mental health matters, and reviewing impact of policies on minority mental health service delivery and access.

Creates a Minority Mental Health Council consisting of the Commissioner (chair) and 14 appointed members reflecting the state's population diversity, with appointments split among the Governor (4), Senate President (4), Assembly Speaker (4), Senate Minority Leader (1), and Assembly Minority Leader (1).

Council members serve two-year terms and must meet at least four times annually to review minority mental health services and conduct a study on unmet needs, with findings due to legislative leadership within 18 months.

Division shall work with professional schools and state agencies to increase the supply of minority mental health personnel through clinical training, curriculum improvement, and career outreach to students.