New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S06896

Introduced
3/26/25  
Refer
3/26/25  
Report Pass
5/13/25  
Refer
1/7/26  

Caption

Enacts the PTSD awareness and rehabilitation act to require PTSD screening, provide trauma-informed education, and implement evidence-based rehabilitation programs to ensure incarcerated individuals receive proper support for mental health challenges.

Impact

The act will have substantial implications for state laws related to correctional practices. By establishing mandatory PTSD screenings and requiring trauma-informed care, the legislation seeks to improve the quality of mental health services available to incarcerated individuals. This is anticipated to not only aid in addressing the mental health crises within correctional facilities but also to enhance community safety by reducing the likelihood of reoffending. Furthermore, the bill calls for the integration of trauma-informed approaches into rehabilitation programs, marking a shift towards more empathetic correctional practices.

Summary

S06896, known as the PTSD Awareness and Rehabilitation Act, aims to address the significant mental health challenges faced by incarcerated individuals, specifically those suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The bill mandates screening for PTSD during intake and annual assessments for all individuals in correctional facilities. Recognizing that untreated PTSD can exacerbate recidivism rates and complicate successful reintegration into society, the legislation emphasizes the need for comprehensive mental health support within the correctional system.

Contention

While the bill focuses on an important aspect of public health and safety, it may encounter opposition on grounds of funding and feasibility. Some critics may argue that the implementation of such broad screening and training practices could stretch the existing resources of the correctional system. Additionally, there could be discussions regarding the effectiveness of trauma-informed care in a correctional setting, particularly concerning its impact on overall rehabilitation outcomes. However, proponents highlight the ethical obligation to support the mental health needs of the incarcerated population and argue for the long-term benefits of reducing recidivism through better mental health care.

Companion Bills

NY A06649

Same As Enacts the PTSD awareness and rehabilitation act to require PTSD screening, provide trauma-informed education, and implement evidence-based rehabilitation programs to ensure incarcerated individuals receive proper support for mental health challenges.

Previously Filed As

NY A06649

Enacts the PTSD awareness and rehabilitation act to require PTSD screening, provide trauma-informed education, and implement evidence-based rehabilitation programs to ensure incarcerated individuals receive proper support for mental health challenges.

NY S10192

Requires mental health services for incarcerated individuals with mental health issues related to the trauma of incarceration upon reentry and reintegration into society upon release.

NY S09854

Prohibits the department of corrections from placing incarcerated individuals in two-person cells in residential rehabilitation units unless such incarcerated individuals agree.

NY A11071

Prohibits the department of corrections from placing incarcerated individuals in two-person cells in residential rehabilitation units unless such incarcerated individuals agree.

NY HB5196

Corrections: other; screening and treatment for post traumatic prison disorder; provide for and require certain other mental health screening, planning, and treatment of incarcerated individuals. Amends sec. 67 of 1953 PA 232 (MCL 791.267) & adds secs. 34e, 67c & 67d.

NY S05317

Requires the office of addiction services and supports to collect certain demographic data for incarcerated individuals in medication assisted treatment programs.

NY A03936

Requires the office of addiction services and supports to collect certain demographic data for incarcerated individuals in medication assisted treatment programs.

NY HB667

Correctional Services - Comprehensive Rehabilitative Prerelease Services - Female Incarcerated Individuals

NY HB935

Correctional Services - Comprehensive Rehabilitative Prerelease Services - Female Incarcerated Individuals

NY SB187

Correctional Services - Comprehensive Rehabilitative Prerelease Services - Female Incarcerated Individuals (Monica Cooper Prerelease Act)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.