At Long Last, A Little Compromise in the Midst of Dysfunction

As reported in the Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin this morning, the state Senate is finally preparing to pass Timothy’s law, which would require New York State health insurers to cover treatment for mental illness and substance abuse. Insurance companies would not be allowed to charge a higher co-pay for mental health visits. We highlighted Timothy’s law in our 2004 report on the New York legislature as an example of a bill that has languished in committee for years, despite widespread public backing and majority support in both chambers. The Assembly has approved the bill in each session for several years, but the Senate has continually failed to pass a comparable measure.

We applaud the move toward compromise but note that this action is long overdue. When they come into session in January, both the Senate and Assembly should adopt rules making it easier for rank-and-file members to override leadership objections and bring popular legislation to the floor for a vote.

Categories: General, Legislative Rules