Metzger bill would allow mental health professionals at kids’ camps
A bill making its way through the state Legislature would allow summer camps in New York to hire licensed professionals to deal with such issues as developmental disabilities and emotional trauma among children.
The bill (S3834), sponsored by Sen. Jen Metzger, DRosendale, was approved by the state Senate this week and is await- ing action by the Assembly.
If passed by the Assembly and signed into law by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, the measure would allow camps to hire social workers, physical therapists, mental health care professionals, occupational therapists and other licensed professionals, Metzger’s office said.
“Summer camp can be an incredible experience for kids, but we have to recognize that many children need additional support to truly flourish at camp, just as they do in school,” Metzger, who represents New York’s 42nd Senate District, said in a prepared statement. “This legislation will ensure that children with physical and mental health needs can access the care they need to thrive and enjoy camp to the fullest.”
The New York State Camp Di
rectors Association feels the current law, which excludes mental health professionals from the list of permissible services at regulated day and overnight camps, is “outdated and makes campers less safe.”
“We thank Senator Metzger and the Senate for recognizing the need to ensure parity between the physical and mental health needs of children attending summer camps, and urge the Assembly to do the same,” Dan Weir, president of the association, said in the statement issued by Metzger’s office. “As camp directors, we see firsthand the debilitating mental health issues children and staff face today.”
“From the child who identifies as LGBTQ+ to the camper who is suffering from disordered eating or is contemplating suicide, it is our responsibility to ensure they are safe, and unfortunately, current law makes that extremely difficult,” Weir added.
Metzger said the law would go a long way toward putting parents at ease.
“This legislation will provide peace of mind to parents, knowing that their children are in the capable hands of licensed practitioners at summer camps, and I urge the Assembly to pass this important piece of legislation this year so we can see it signed into law,” Metzger said.
The Assembly version of the bill, sponsored by Tom Abinanti, D-Greenburgh, has been stalled in the Higher Education Committee for several years and is not currently scheduled for a vote of the full chamber.