Alliance Alert: New York continues to detain hundreds of individuals with mental health challenges indefinitely in forensic psychiatric centers—often long after treatment teams have determined they are ready for release. These individuals, many of whom were found not guilty due to their mental health condition at the time of the incident, are subjected to conditionssimilar to incarceration, with no guaranteed timeline for recovery, rehabilitation, or reentry to the community.
This system is not just unjust—it’s harmful, outdated, and in urgent need of reform.
That’s why we urge you to attend today’s (Wednesday, August 6) 12pm webinar on the Forensic Rehabilitation Act (FRA)—a vital piece of legislation that aims to bring common-sense reforms to the state’s forensic mental health system- hosted by the Mental Health Alternatives to Solitary Confinement coalition.
Why This Matters
Reforming the forensic system is critical to ensuring that people with mental health needs receive effective services, not indefinite punishment. The FRA proposes straightforward, compassionate reforms that will:
- Establish clear timelines and due process protections for those held in forensic psychiatric settings;
- Ensure people are not confined beyond what is necessary;
- Support quality health outcomes while protecting publicsafety through individualized services and reentry support.
This legislation does not weaken our legal system—it strengthens it by restoring fairness, dignity, and a true path to recovery for those who need it most.
We support the Forensic Rehabilitation Act because we believe people can recover and deserve a real chance at rebuilding their lives. Holding someone indefinitely when they are well enough to return to their community is not treatment—it is injustice.
We invite you to learn more and join the movement for change.
Register Now: https://bit.ly/Aug6th12pm
Let’s create a forensic mental health system that promotes healing, accountability, and hope—not endless detention. See below for more information.
