Overview

• The FY2026 New York State budget redefines 'danger to self,' allowing involuntary commitment for those unable to meet basic needs due to mental illness.
• Psychiatric nurse practitioners are now authorized to approve involuntary commitments, addressing bottlenecks caused by a shortage of physicians.
• The budget allocates $16.5 million for Assisted Outpatient Treatment programs and $2 million for staffing at the Office of Mental Health.
• Mayor Eric Adams, who has advocated for these reforms since 2022, emphasized their importance in addressing homelessness and public safety in New York City.
• City officials are preparing to implement the changes through enhanced outreach programs like SCOUT and PATH, which have already made thousands of contacts with unhoused individuals.