NY S07118

Amends correction law to clarify that the Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs monitors mental health care for inmates under Article Twenty of the Executive Law rather than Article Forty-Five of the Mental Hygiene Law.

Replaces terminology in education law sections 4212, 4314, 4358, and 4403 by substituting "abuse or neglect" for "reportable incident" and changing the evidentiary standard from "some credible" evidence to "a preponderance of the evidence" for substantiated allegations.

Adds requirement across multiple education law sections that individuals convicted of Category One offenses listed on the Vulnerable Persons' Central Register cannot be hired or used in positions with regular and substantial contact with service recipients, subject to collective bargaining agreements.

Expands the definition of mandatory reporters under social services law section 413 to include employees or volunteers in residential care facilities for children licensed or operated by the Office of Children and Family Services.

Extends whistleblower protections in social services law section 491 to cover vendors and contractors of institutions and agencies, preventing retaliation for reporting suspected abuse or neglect and for cooperating with investigations.