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Bill

Bill

S 6149

Establishes a transgender and non-binary peer support grant program

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Parker

New York bill creates state-funded peer support grant program specifically for transgender and non-binary individuals' mental health services.

REFERRED TO MENTAL HEALTH
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Bill Summary · S 6149

Legislative bill overview

S 6149 establishes a grant program to fund peer support services specifically for transgender and non-binary individuals in New York. The bill would allocate state funding to organizations providing mental health and wellness support through peer-led initiatives rather than exclusively professional services.

Why is this important

Peer support programs can reduce isolation and improve mental health outcomes for marginalized communities, and this bill recognizes that trans and non-binary individuals face documented higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide. The program represents a targeted investment in community-based mental health infrastructure for a population that frequently reports difficulty accessing affirming care.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and budget allocation: Opponents may question the funding amount and whether resources should prioritize other mental health initiatives or populations with documented higher mortality rates
  • Definition scope: Disagreement over what qualifies as "peer support," whether providers need specific credentials, and how to measure program effectiveness
  • Philosophical debate: Fundamental disagreement about whether targeted programs for specific identity groups are appropriate public policy versus universal mental health funding approaches

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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