08/01/2026
New York's children's mental health system is at a pivotal moment.
This conversation with Northern Rivers CEO Bill Gettman highlights the difficult work ahead as New York implements the court-approved settlement in *C.K. v. McDonald*—a landmark case requiring the state to redesign its children's behavioral health system so eligible youth can receive the intensive home and community-based services they are entitled to under Medicaid. https://omh.ny.gov/omhweb/childservice/proposed-class-action-settlement.html
The discussion raises important questions:
• How will these changes be funded?
• Will there be enough providers and workforce to meet the need?
• How can we reduce the administrative barriers that keep families waiting for help?
For families, providers, advocates, and policymakers, this isn't just a policy conversation—it's about whether children receive the right services at the right time.
As implementation moves forward over the coming year, LIFT encourages families and stakeholders to stay informed, participate in listening sessions, and share ideas for building a system that is easier to navigate, more responsive, and truly family-centered.
🎧 Listen to the interview and let us know: What changes would make the biggest difference for children and families?
https://capitolpressroom.org/2026/07/13/red-flags-with-overhaul-of-youth-mental-health-services/
This notice informs you about the proposed settlement of legal claims in a class action lawsuit against James V. McDonald, the Commissioner of the New York State Department of Health (“DOH”) and Ann Marie T. Sullivan, the Commissioner of the New York State Office of Mental Health (“OMH”).
