State Senator Christopher J. Ryan (SD-50) announced the passage of Senate Bill S.6912A, a bill which expands mental health services for patients involved in workers’ compensation cases.

Under the current law, only licensed psychologists and licensed clinical social workers are authorized to provide care to patients in a workers’ compensation case. This legislation expands the list of authorized providers to include mental health practitioners licensed under Article 163 of the education law who have obtained diagnostic privilege. 

“Injuries sustained on the job can leave lasting physical and mental effects,” said Senator Ryan. “When someone is recovering from a workplace injury, they should have access to the full range of qualified mental health professionals who can provide the care they need. By expanding the list of authorized providers in workers’ compensation cases, this legislation will help reduce barriers to treatment, improve access to timely care, and better support workers as they recover and return to their daily lives.”

S.6912A passed through the Senate with bipartisan support on June 2. This bill has passed the Assembly and will now go to the governor to be signed or vetoed.