NY A09982

Amends Mental Hygiene Law to establish peer crisis diversion homes providing short-term, home-like residential services for adults experiencing behavioral health crises who do not require hospitalization.

Requires the Commissioner of Mental Health to establish or contract for at least six peer crisis diversion homes within one year: three in urban settings and three in rural communities.

Mandates homes be staffed 24 hours daily by at least two peer support specialists, employ a full-time licensed clinician and part-time psychiatric consultant, and be governed by current or former mental health service recipients.

Establishes training requirements for peer support specialists including certification in de-escalation, cultural competency, recovery processes, substance abuse, and avoidance of aggressive confrontation.

Requires homes to serve residents regardless of income, accept residents on a first-come, first-served basis for temporary stays, and participate in county and community planning activities to track recovery outcomes.