NY A00185

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

Defines peer crisis diversion homes as recipient-run, home-like environments providing temporary housing for adults with behavioral health disorders who voluntarily seek services and do not require hospitalization

Mandates 24-hour staffing by at least two peer support specialists (individuals who have personally experienced and recovered from urgent behavioral health needs), plus a full-time licensed clinician and part-time psychiatric consultant

Requires peer support specialists to complete approved training in de-escalation techniques, cultural competency, race relations, recovery process, substance abuse, and avoidance of aggressive confrontation

Services must be available regardless of income, include both traditional and nontraditional therapeutic options, and focus on helping residents develop daily living skills and reintegrate into independent community living