NY A08837

Establishes a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training demonstration program in cities with populations of one million or more to assist law enforcement in responding to mental health and substance abuse crises.

Creates the position of Crisis Intervention Team Training Program Coordinator within the Office of Mental Health to coordinate specialized training with law enforcement agencies and develop community partnerships.

Establishes a Crisis Intervention Team Training Fund with up to one million dollars from state fiscal year 2015-2016 appropriations, funded by federal grants, private donations, and contributions.

Requires a minimum of 40 hours of mandatory mental health training for all law enforcement officers in participating cities and establishes goals including reducing arrest and detention of individuals in crisis, decreasing officer injuries, and providing alternatives to incarceration.

Creates an advisory committee with representatives from mental health agencies, law enforcement, disability services, advocacy groups, and consumers to review annual reports and make recommendations to state leadership.