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Assembly approves peer-to-peer mental-health program for police officers
Summary
Legislation to establish a Joseph P. Dwyer-style peer-to-peer mental-health support program for law enforcement passed the Assembly after broad bipartisan support and multiple floor statements about rising suicide risk among officers.
The Assembly passed A.6721A on June 5 to authorize a formalized peer-to-peer mental-health support program for law enforcement officers. Sponsors and a wide range of members described the bill as a response to rising suicide rates among first responders and said peer-support models have demonstrated measurable benefits.
Sponsor Assemblymember Griffin framed the measure as a needed resource for officers exposed to repeated trauma. "Police officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities," Griffin said; "this is about supporting the men and women who protect us by ensuring they have mental health resources to serve communities across the state effectively."
Speakers including county PBA leaders and members from across the chamber praised the bill's bipartisan path. Multiple members noted the bill honors Lieutenant Joseph Banish and expands the Dwyer peer support model used for veterans to law enforcement and other first responders.
Floor votes were recorded in favor with an overwhelming majority; the roll call read Ayes 141, Noes 0 (recorded on the floor as Ayes 141, Noes 0). The measure passed and sponsors urged implementing agencies and law enforcement associations to work on rapid rollout and training.
