A Statement from Assemblyman John Mikulin (R,C-Bethpage) in support of the “Lieutenant Joseph Banish Mental Health Act,” which establishes a peer support program to provide confidential counseling services and support for law enforcement officers.

“This proposal was introduced in memory of Lt. Joseph Banish, a New York state trooper who struggled with PTSD and poor mental health resulting from traumatic experiences in the line of duty and tragically committed suicide. The Lieutenant Joseph Banish Mental Health Act would recognize and provide confidentiality protections for peer-to-peer support programs for law enforcement officers, allowing them to both receive counseling services and provide those services to other officers. Our officers put their lives on the line each day to keep us safe. Recognizing and providing confidentiality protections for these programs is a great way for the state to give back. It is time we safeguard our law enforcement officers’ mental health and well-being and ensure they have access to the support services they deserve.”