Bill S6859 is an act amending the existing Executive Law and the Mental Hygiene Law. This amendment would implement police officer training that focuses on the appropriate use of force and de-escalation techniques. Training would also help police officers to interpret the behaviors of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities. Often these behaviors can be misinterpreted as being threatening or criminal in nature. This bill is currently stuck in the committee on codes and needs to gain awareness and support before the bill can be passed.

Implementing this bill would have a number of positive impacts on the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. Overall, the passing of this bill would improve their quality of life and their safety when out in the community. This bill would also help alleviate the stress that caregivers and loved ones of the individuals experience every time they go out in the community. Having police officers that are properly trained on how to handle situations involving individuals with ASD or other developmental disabilities would help maintain the safety of all individuals involved.