MHANYS applauds Governor Hochul for signing legislation (S8312/A7563, Chapter 587 of the Laws 2025) sponsored by Senator Michelle Hinchey and Assemblymember John McDonald to expand access to mental health courts.
The new law, which takes effect immediately, will allow cases to be transferred to mental health courts in adjoining counties from counties that do not have mental health courts. The legislation passed the Senate and Assembly unanimously. Under the law, transfers can proceed only when all parties agree:
- The Defense
- District Attorneys from both counties
- The Receiving Court
MHANYS has long supported access to mental health courts and advocated for the expansion of these courts as a critical resource and opportunity to connect individuals who have come into contact with the criminal justice system with services.
Funding in the 2024-25 state budget has been allocated to provide for the expansion of mental health courts, which currently operate in 40 of 62 counties.
MHANYS thanks Senator Hinchey and Assemblymember McDonald for leading this effort.
Read the press release from Sen. Hinchey and Asm. McDonald here.
