NY A00159

Establishes a 20-member statewide group home families working group with members selected by legislative leaders (7 each from senate majority and assembly majority; 3 each from senate and assembly minority) in consultation with the commissioner, consisting of persons with developmental disabilities in group homes or their family members and guardians.

Working group shall advise the commissioner on matters affecting persons with developmental disabilities in group homes, provide recommendations for statewide and regional priorities, and establish committees as needed, with a chairperson elected by majority vote and terms of three years.

Requires the working group to hold at least four regular meetings annually plus at least one public regional meeting annually in each city, town, or village with a developmental disabilities services office, with 15 days' public notice and opportunity for oral and written comment on group home operations and financial matters.

Working group must submit annual reports to the commissioner, governor, and legislature by January 30, 2025 and thereafter reviewing group home concerns and recommendations, and shall collaborate with the commissioner who must provide reasonable assistance for fulfilling working group duties.

Amends the Mental Hygiene Law to include the working group's recommendations in the statewide five-year comprehensive plan for behavioral health services alongside recommendations from other advisory councils; members receive no compensation but are reimbursed for necessary expenses.