NY A10225

Amends Section 3 of Article 17 of the New York Constitution to add "mental" health alongside "physical" health as matters of public concern requiring state and subdivision provision.

Amends Section 4 of Article 17 to change mandatory language from "may" to "shall" regarding care, treatment, and protection of persons with mental disorders and the mental health of state inhabitants.

Requires the head of the Department of Mental Hygiene to visit and inspect all public and private institutions providing care and treatment for persons with mental disorders or defects.

Establishes constitutional parity between mental and physical health protections by making mental health provision a mandatory state obligation rather than discretionary.

Requires the amendment to be referred to the first regular legislative session after the next general assembly election and published for 3 months prior to that election before ratification.