NY A09733

Transfers the Justice Center's authority to monitor mental health care for inmates from Article 45 of the Mental Hygiene Law to Article 20 of the Executive Law.

Replaces terminology throughout Education Law sections 4212, 4314, 4358, and 4403, changing "reportable incident" to "abuse or neglect" and "some credible evidence" to "a preponderance of the evidence" in substantiation standards.

Adds requirement that individuals with Category One offenses on the Vulnerable Persons' Central Register cannot be hired or used in positions with regular and substantial contact with service recipients, consistent with collective bargaining agreements.

Expands the mandatory reporters list in Social Services Law Section 413 to include employees or volunteers in residential care facilities for children that are licensed, certified, or operated by the Office of Children and Family Services.

Extends whistleblower protections under Social Services Law Section 491 to include vendors and contractors who report suspected abuse or cooperate with investigations involving vulnerable persons.