NY A10257

Office of Mental Health, in conjunction with state agencies including Department of Social Services, Office of Children and Family Services, Department of Corrections, Department of Health, Department of Financial Services, and Department of Education, shall adopt a co-occurring disorders patient bill of rights.

Bill of rights includes 11 enumerated rights: nondiscrimination in treatment; accurate recognition of co-occurring disorders through screening and documentation; integrated services matched to individual needs; evidence-based high-quality treatment; continuity of care for extended periods; family involvement and support; prevention services for at-risk youth; accountability and transparency; access to peer advocates with lived experience; adequate provider resources and compensation; and safe, recovery-oriented supportive housing.

Individuals seeking treatment for co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders shall receive services without regard to age, race, color, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, sex, disability, gender identity, national origin, or payment source.

Act takes effect 90 days after becoming law, with rules and regulations to be adopted by the effective date.