Suffolk Reporter

Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, alongside Minority Leader Will Barclay and Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt, has urged reforms to New York's involuntary commitment laws following an attack on four young girls. The incident involved a family member with a history of mental illness.

DeStefano stated, "This tragedy is heartbreaking, and it should never have happened." He emphasized the need for an improved mental health system to prevent such situations. According to DeStefano, current tools are inadequate for intervening when individuals with serious mental health issues pose a danger.

The legislators convened in the Senate Minority Conference Room to discuss the necessity for legislative changes. The proposed reforms aim to strengthen criteria for involuntary commitment. This would ensure those with severe mental health conditions receive necessary treatment before causing harm. The emphasis was on both public safety and compassionate intervention for those in need.