On August 9, 1999, the New York State Governor signed Kendra's Law (Chapter 408 of the Laws of 1999), creating a statutory framework for court-ordered Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) to ensure that individuals with mental illness and a history of hospitalizations and/or violence participate in community-based services appropriate to their needs. The law became effective in November of 1999 and is reviewed periodically by the New York State Legislature for continuation.
Kendra's Law requires that each county in New York State and New York City establish a local AOT program to implement the statute's requirements, and the New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) is responsible for monitoring and overseeing the implementation of AOT statewide. Implementation of Kendra's Law and AOT has been a joint responsibility and collaboration between OMH and local mental health authorities.
AOT Referral Form
For Inquiries regarding Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) please contact: Lindsay Best AOT Coordinator at (315) 229-3871 or [email protected].
