NY A03952

Authorizes the commissioner of mental health, in conjunction with the commissioner of the office for people with developmental disabilities, to waive rules and regulations of the office of mental health and department of health to remove barriers to collaboration between mental health providers and home care service providers.

Waiver authority applies to barriers related to medical assistance reimbursement, service procedures, care coordination, and direct care worker training.

Prohibits waivers of regulations pertaining to patient safety and prohibits any waiver that would risk patient safety.

Applies the waiver authority to three areas: services for the mentally ill (section 7.15), services for individuals with developmental disabilities (section 13.15), and alcoholism and substance abuse services (section 19.15).

Takes effect immediately upon enactment.