NY A11117

Amends the Public Health Law to modify terminology in the definition of "covered health care services" under the Child Health Insurance Plan, replacing "abuse" with "use" when referring to alcohol and substance services.

Expands coverage to include early and periodic screening, diagnosis and treatment for eligible children under age six and other eligible children to ascertain physical and mental disabilities.

Removes the requirement that mental health, alcohol and substance use services be defined by the commissioner in consultation with the superintendent, making these services automatically covered.

Takes effect on the first of April following enactment, with the commissioner of health required to promulgate regulations and take necessary actions to implement the changes by that date.