NY A07233

Creates a seven-member veterans' mental health and suicide prevention task force to examine and improve mental health services and suicide prevention for returning veterans.

Task force members appointed by the Governor, Senate Temporary President, Senate Minority Leader, Assembly Speaker, Assembly Minority Leader, Director of the Division of Veterans' Affairs, and the Commissioner of Health, with all appointees required to have expertise in mental health fields.

Task force chair selected from the Governor's appointee; members meet at least quarterly and may hold public hearings, request studies from state agencies, and establish advisory committees as needed.

Task force must submit a preliminary report within 13 months and a final report within 22 months of the effective date, including findings, conclusions, recommendations, and proposed legislation to implement recommendations.

Task force provisions automatically expire and are repealed 2 years after the effective date of the act.