NY A10008

Authorizes the Commissioner of Mental Health, in conjunction with the Commissioner 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 covers barriers related to medical assistance reimbursement, service procedures, care coordination, and direct care worker training.

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

Applies these waiver provisions to three sections of the Mental Hygiene Law: programs for the mentally ill, programs for individuals with developmental disabilities, and programs for alcoholism and substance abuse services.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment.