Senator Larkin Votes To Strengthen And Make Permanent Kendra’s Law

Senator William J. Larkin, Jr. (R-C-I, 30th District) voted today to strengthen Kendra’s Law and make it permanent.  In 1999, New York State enacted “Kendra’s Law” after a tragic incident where 32-year-old Kendra Webdale was pushed in front of a subway train by a man with untreated schizophrenia who was roaming the New York City Streets.  This law allows for court ordered assisted outpatient treatment (AOT) for individuals who won’t voluntarily seek help but are a safety threat.

“Individuals suffering from mental illness must receive the care they need so that they and our community can remain safe,” said Senator Bill Larkin.  “Today, I joined my Senate colleagues in voting to strengthen Kendra’s Law and make it permanent.  This legislation enhances public safety and improves the quality and effectiveness of care provided to the mentally ill.”

This legislation would prevent Kendra’s Law from expiring on June 30, 2017.  Over the years, Kendra’s Law has protected the public while vastly improving the quality of life for those grappling with severe mental illness.  Before Kendra’s Law, the system was flawed because it could allow people with the most serious mental health disturbances who pose a risk to themselves or others to deteriorate before they got help.

“By strengthening and permanently implementing Kendra’s Law, people with profound mental illness will get the court-ordered assisted outpatient treatment they need to prevent violence, suicide and incarcerations,” continued Senator Larkin.  “Now, I call on the Assembly to act on this legislation to ensure our communities are kept safe and those suffering from a mental illness get the help they need.”