NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT OF LEGISLATION submitted in accordance with Assembly Rule III, Sec 1(f)
BILL NUMBER: A6037A
SPONSOR: Hunter TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the mental hygiene law, in relation to establishing a
peer support program for veterans
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
The purpose of this bill is to establish e peer support program for
veterans. and establishes minimum qualifications for recognized or
certified veteran peer counselor.
SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:
The mental hygiene law is amended by adding a new section •7.42 that
defines the term "peer support services" and "veteran peer counselor"
The commissioner of Mental Health in consultation wit the commissioner
of veterans' service and the commissioner of addiction services and
supports to establish recommended qualifications for veteran peer coun-
selors.
JUSTIFICATION:
Peer support programs help veterans transition back to civilian life.
It is especially valuable for active military duty veterans; giving them
a setting for discussion with their comrades who also had similar expe-
riences. Peer support programs also, help veterans become more produc-
tive with dealing with stress and coping with depression or substance
abuse.
Trauma and stress experienced during military service can often leave
veterans with PTSD. Veterans may turn to medication or alcohol to
relieve the symptoms of PTSD which could ultimately lead to addiction
and abuse. Peer support programs are critical factors in mitigating PTSD
as they enable veterans to build healthier and positive relationships.'
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
2011/12: A9679A Referred to Ways and Means
2013/14: A6516 Passed Assembly.
2015/16: A6114 Referred to Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities
2021/22: A9431 Referred to veterans affairs
2023/24: A1642 Referred to Veterans Affairs
FISCAL IMPLICATION:
To be determined
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on one year after it shall have become a law.
Effective immediately the addition, amendment and/or repeal of any rule
or reputation necessary for the implementation of this act on its effec-
tive date are authorized to be made and completed on or before such
date.
