Orange County accepts OMH grant for forensic court navigator and adds state aid for mental-health contract agencies

Orange County legislators approved accepting $210,090 from the New York State Office of Mental Health to fund a forensic court navigator position intended to coordinate voluntary care for people involved in the criminal court system who have mental health needs. The funding, introduced as legislative request number 37, passed by voice vote with no recorded opposition.

Lacey Bridal, Commissioner of Social Services and Mental Health, said the state determined the allocation before the county submitted its operational plan. Bridal said the position will “help us improve coordination between the court and service providers with the goal of improving outcomes and reducing recidivism of people who are involved with the court system and have co‑occurring mental health needs.” Bridal added the funding will be used to standardize…