NY A03108

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 culturally and linguistically appropriate mental health programs, serving as liaison on minority mental health matters, improving supply of minority mental health professionals, and reviewing impact of policies on minority service delivery and access.

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

Council members serve two-year terms, receive no compensation but are reimbursed for expenses, and must meet at least four times annually to consider minority mental health matters and conduct studies on mental health needs of racial and ethnic minorities.

Council shall report findings and recommendations to the Governor, Commissioner, legislative leadership, and relevant committees within 18 months of the division's effective date; act takes effect April 1 following enactment.