BILL NUMBER: S6153
SPONSOR: SKOUFIS
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the mental hygiene law, in relation to establishing a
comprehensive training program for care managers employed by care coor-
dination organizations
 
PURPOSE:
To establish a comprehensive training program for care managers employed
by care coordination organizations
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1: Identifies and cites this act as "Ella's Law."
Section 2: Amends section 13.23 of the mental health hygiene by adding
subdivision d, which establishes that the office will establish a
comprehensive training program for care managers working with care coor-
dination organizations, in collaboration with advocacy groups. This
training must be completed before managers begin working with clients
and will cover essential topics, including person-centered planning,
effective communication strategies that promote inclusion, and under-
standing and upholding the rights of individuals with developmental
disabilities, including voting rights. It will also emphasize cultural
competence, advocacy skills, and compliance with relevant laws and regu-
lations. Additionally, the program will provide knowledge of the health-
care system, available services, Medicaid benefits, and how to navigate
these resources effectively. Care managers will also be trained in
connecting individuals with community resources, financial assistance,
and support services while fostering collaboration among healthcare
providers, social services, and other stakeholders to ensure comprehen-
sive care.
Section 3: Sets Effective Date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Health Home Care Management services, facilitated by Care Coordination
Organizations (CCOs), oversee behavioral health and developmental disa-
bility services for New Yorkers who-qualify for Office People with
Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) services. Within this framework, CCOs
employ care managers who work directly with individuals with disabili-
ties to navigate and access essential services for them.
To excel in their role, Care Managers must possess a significant compre-
hension of the multifaceted systems, services, and programs offered
through state and federal agencies for individuals with disabilities.
Additionally, care managers must have interpersonal skills tailored to
engage individuals with severe disabilities and their family members
effectively.
Comprehensive training created by OPWDD in coordination with CCOs and
advocacy groups representing individuals with disabilities will ensure
care managers are adequately prepared to succeed in their jobs. By
standardizing training protocols, this bill will ensure that Care Manag-
ers are equipped with the knowledge and skills for proficient client
assistance, ensuring optimal care delivery and support.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
Senate
2023: N/A
2024: S9155, Referred to Disabilities
Assembly
2023: N/A
2024: A10258, Referred to People with Disabilities
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
None to the state.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the one hundred eightieth day after it
shall have become a law. Effective immediately, the addition, amendment
and/or repeal of any rule or regulation necessary for the implementation
of this act on its effective date are authorized to be made and
completed on or before such effective date.

Statutes affected:
S6153: 13.23 mental hygiene law