West NY News

In Albany, New York, Senator George Borrello has voiced criticism over the state's failure to act on a mental health reform proposal he introduced in 2022 alongside former Senator Diane Savino. The proposed legislation sought to expand criteria for involuntary commitment and enhance Kendra’s Law. According to Borrello, these reforms could have prevented many tragic incidents.

"Our state’s inaction on addressing serious mental illness has cost many innocent lives in recent years and put countless others at risk," said Sen. Borrello. He highlighted the increase in violent acts by mentally ill individuals, particularly on New York City subways, as evidence of a growing crisis.

Borrello pointed out several crimes that might have been avoided with the proposed reforms:

- In November 2024, Ramon Rivera was accused of a stabbing spree in Manhattan that killed three people.

- In December 2024, Kamel Hawkins allegedly pushed someone onto subway tracks causing severe injuries; his family reported signs of mental instability.

- Also in December 2024, a woman was set on fire while sleeping on a subway train by an alleged migrant with substance abuse and mental health issues.

- In March 2024, Franz Jeudy was accused of assaulting a school bus aide in Brooklyn.

- In May 2022, Andrew Abdullah was charged with fatally shooting Daniel Enriquez on the subway.

Senator Borrello noted Governor Hochul's recent announcement to propose strengthening state laws related to involuntary commitment standards and Kendra’s Law—similar to those introduced by him three years ago.

The legislation introduced by Senators Savino and Borrello as S.8508A includes broadening involuntary hospitalization criteria if an individual's mental illness impairs their ability to meet basic needs like food or shelter—a standard used by most states—and extending hospital stays for those not complying with court-mandated outpatient treatment under Kendra’s Law.

"This legislation is about saving lives and preventing tragedies," said Sen. Borrello. He emphasized the importance of broadening hospitalization standards and allowing longer hospital stays for stabilizing patients under court-mandated treatment plans.

Kendra’s Law honors Kendra Webdale from Fredonia, New York—tragically killed in a subway incident by a man with schizophrenia. She was also Sen. Borrello's friend during high school years at Fredonia High School.

“Kendra’s Law was spurred by a preventable and horrific tragedy that took the life of a kind, gifted young woman," remarked Sen. Borrello. He stressed its effectiveness but noted it remains underutilized despite helping prevent homelessness and incarceration among severely mentally ill individuals.

Borrello concluded by urging Governor Hochul to incorporate this bill into her executive budget: "If Governor Hochul is serious about reforming New York’s mental health system, she should include this bill’s language."