Overview
The Behavioral Health Services Advisory Council (BHSAC) is authorized by Chapter 56 of the Laws of the State of New York to advise OMH & OASAS on issues relating to the improvement and integration of behavioral health services in New York including issues of joint concern and issues related to the delivery of behavioral health services that are responsive to local, state and federal concerns.
The BHSAC also reviews applications filed in accordance with the Mental Hygiene Law for the approval of the incorporation, establishment and/or construction of certain facilities which require approval from either/both agencies.
Treatment Equity Committee
Chapter 4 of the Laws of 2022 was signed into law by Governor Hochul, creating the Committee for Treatment Equity within the Behavioral Health Services Advisory Council.
The Committee for Treatment Equity is tasked with examining the substance use disorder system for purposes of:
- Identifying stakeholders and working collaboratively to set priorities to achieve treatment equity in racially and ethnically diverse regions of the state and among vulnerable populations throughout the state;
- Analyzing data to identify the root causes of treatment inequities in racially and ethnically diverse regions of the state and among vulnerable populations throughout the state;
- Recommending strategies to overcome substance use treatment inequities;
- Promoting community engagement; and,
- Reviewing the impact of current laws, rules, regulations, policies and programs impacting the ability to achieve treatment equity.
Upcoming Meetings
2023 Calendar
Public Participation
The Council welcomes interested observers at its meetings and the meetings of its committees.
-
Guidance for Public Participation
BHSAC meetings are open to the public in accordance with the Open Meeting Law. To make these meetings as productive as possible, the Council has established certain guidelines as it pertains to public participation.
Download
What's Related
-
About the BHSAC
Description of the Council's membership, roles, and responsibilities as defined by statute.
Download
Contact BHSAC
For further information contact Patricia Bowes, Office of Mental Health, Director of Intergovernmental Relations.
Contact us by phone:
Contact us by email:
Mailing Address:
New York State Office of Mental Health
44 Holland Avenue, Albany, NY 12229