Senate bill S06859 is an act to amend the executive and mental hygiene law to mandate specific training for police officers. The training would educate police officers on how to properly interpret the behaviors of individuals with ASD and other developmental disabilities, which is often misinterpreted as criminal activity. The training would prioritize de-escalation techniques, and appropriate use of force when necessary, ensuring the safety of all individuals involved.

This policy needs to gain support in order to be passed through the Senate as well as to obtain a same as bill within the Assembly. If implemented, this policy would greatly improve the quality of life of individuals with ASD and other developmental disabilities, allowing for decreased stress for the individual, their caregiver and others during community outings.