Daniel’s Law Task Force Releases Recommendations for Behavioral Health Crisis Response

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — New York State is taking steps toward transforming its approach to behavioral health crises with the release of the Daniel’s Law Task Force Report.

Formed in response to the 2020 death of Daniel Prude, a 41-year-old Black man who died during a police encounter in Rochester, the task force recommends reducing law enforcement involvement in behavioral health emergencies. Its proposal centers on implementing a standardized, health-led crisis response system across the state, aiming to prioritize compassionate, trauma-informed care.

“Daniel’s Law represents a commitment to reimagining crisis response and prioritizing health over enforcement,” said Dr. Ann Sullivan, commissioner of the New York State Office of Mental Health. “This report provides a roadmap for building a trauma-informed system that ensures individuals in crisis receive the care they need without fear of harm.”

The task force advocates for health-led crisis response teams to address emergencies involving mental health or substance use. These teams, composed of trained behavioral health professionals, would respond to calls from 911 and the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Law enforcement would only be involved if there is a clear threat of violence.

To test the model’s effectiveness, the report suggests launching pilot programs tailored to the unique needs of urban, suburban, and rural communities. These programs would evaluate resource availability, engage local stakeholders, and prioritize input from individuals with lived experience in behavioral health challenges.

The report also calls for the creation of a Technical Assistance Center to provide guidance, training, and monitoring for communities adopting the health-led crisis response system. The center would work with stakeholders, including the state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, local communities, and 988 call centers. An advisory council, primarily composed of individuals with lived experience, would oversee the center’s efforts to ensure equity and effectiveness.

The initiative has drawn significant attention across the state. Democratic lawmakers and advocacy groups have expressed strong support for the recommendations, emphasizing their potential to provide appropriate care and prevent future tragedies.

“I am encouraged by the Daniel’s Law Task Force’s recommendations, as they are in line with our bill and outline the necessity of a behavioral health response for individuals in a mental health or substance abuse crisis,” State Sen. Samra Brouk said. “By involving peers as trained, culturally competent individuals in the first line of response to such crises, we will reduce harm, address complex needs, and keep our public safe.”

Republican lawmakers, however, have raised concerns about the proposal’s feasibility. Critics question the readiness of health professionals to handle crisis situations traditionally managed by law enforcement, as well as the potential strain on resources and the overall cost of implementing the programs statewide.

Governor Kathy Hochul and state legislators are expected to review the report and consider funding and legislative measures to implement the recommendations. Pilot programs could begin as early as next year, potentially offering a glimpse into the future of crisis response in New York.

The full Daniel’s Law Task Force Report is available here.