NY A02818

Establishes a Division of Minority Mental Health within the Office of Mental Health to address mental health needs of racial and ethnic minority populations in New York State.

Assigns the Division responsibility for ensuring mental health programs and services are culturally and linguistically appropriate, serving as liaison and advocate on minority mental health matters.

Directs the Division to assist professional schools and state agencies in developing comprehensive programs to increase the supply of minority mental health personnel and improve clinical training and curriculum.

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

Requires the Council to conduct a study within 18 months examining rates of mental health service underutilization by racial and ethnic minorities, causes of underutilization, and recommendations for improving access to culturally and linguistically appropriate services.