Governor Kathy Hochul is taking a strong stance on addressing the issue of random violence by the mentally ill in New York. She is determined to bring sanity to the rules for involuntary commitment and make it easier to petition for mental-health treatment under Kendra’s Law.
In her upcoming executive budget, Hochul plans to introduce new legislation to tackle these issues. It is crucial that these measures are ambitious enough to make a real impact. Additionally, she should consider making Kendra’s Law permanent and amending the bail laws to include a “dangerousness” standard.
While Hochul has faced challenges in the past when trying to address mental illness in the Legislature, recent incidents like subway shoving may inspire lawmakers to take action. She has made progress in areas where she can, such as implementing new regulations for outpatient discharge plans and increasing access to psychiatric care.
Hochul’s efforts also include initiatives like the SCOUT program, which has helped homeless individuals access psychiatric care and stable housing. She has increased inpatient psych beds and funding for mental-health programs for those with severe mental illness and criminal histories.
However, getting lawmakers to act will require pushing back against the opposition from the “advocacy community” who believe that forcing people to accept help is wrong. Strengthening Kendra’s Law is important, but more needs to be done to address violent incidents involving the mentally ill.
To achieve meaningful reform, Hochul will need the support of like-minded Democrats in the Legislature. She must challenge those who resist change and push for substantive reforms. The radical minority in the Legislature presents a challenge, but Hochul has the authority to drive change.
In conclusion, Governor Hochul must continue to advocate for comprehensive mental-health reform and use all the tools at her disposal to make it happen. By channeling her determination and leadership, she can make a significant impact in improving mental health care in New York.
