NY A07239

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

Requires the division to ensure mental health programs and services are culturally and linguistically appropriate for minority populations and serve as liaison and advocate on minority mental health matters.

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

Creates a Minority Mental Health Council consisting of the commissioner (chair) and 14 appointed members, with appointments distributed among the governor (4), senate president (4), assembly speaker (4), senate minority leader (1), and assembly minority leader (1).

Requires the council to conduct a study within 18 months on mental health needs of racial and ethnic minorities, including service underutilization rates and recommendations for improving access to culturally and linguistically appropriate care.