Governor Hochul Proposes New Investments in Youth Mental Health and Education

Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at improving youth mental health and expanding educational opportunities during a fireside chat with high school and community college students. These proposals are part of her broader commitment to providing New Yorkers with resources to succeed and include enhanced mental health services, a college-in-high-school funding program, and new apprenticeship opportunities in high-demand fields.

The Governor also announced her intention to introduce legislation in the FY26 Executive Budget to restrict cell phone use in K-12 classrooms, building on prior efforts to regulate social media use among minors.

Teen Mental Health First Aid Training
Governor Hochul plans to introduce teen mental health first aid training in high schools. This program will teach students evidence-based strategies to recognize and address mental health challenges among peers, with the goal of fostering a culture of mental wellness.

After-School Mental Health Support
The Governor proposed connecting licensed healthcare facilities with state-funded after-school programs to provide mental health resources. Social work graduate students from SUNY will also support these programs through required fieldwork, enhancing services for vulnerable youth.

Youth Safe Spaces
Responding to input from the Youth Mental Health Advisory Board, Hochul announced plans for "safe spaces" outside of school and home. These spaces will offer access to mental wellness resources and foster community among young people.

Mentoring Initiatives for Latina and Black Girls
Hochul proposed expanding the existing Latina Mentoring Initiative, which supports Latina youth facing high suicide rates, and launching a similar program for Black girls. These initiatives aim to build confidence, provide representation, and nurture aspirations.

College-in-High-School Opportunity Fund
This initiative will streamline existing programs that allow high school students to earn college credits. The program will prioritize economically disadvantaged students, offering tuition-free courses that could save families up to $20,000 by completing two years of college credits during high school.

Apprenticeship and Pre-Apprenticeship Programs
To address workforce demands, the Governor plans to expand apprenticeship opportunities in fields beyond construction, covering a portion of wages and training costs. Special emphasis will be placed on diversifying and supporting underrepresented groups in these programs.

Summer Work Experience Program
The Department of Labor will partner with businesses to offer high school students summer employment in high-demand fields. Participating businesses will receive partial reimbursement for student stipends.

Governor Hochul framed the initiatives as part of a broader effort to create opportunities for young New Yorkers. “With a creative, ambitious agenda...we are opening up brighter opportunities for countless young New Yorkers,” she said.

These initiatives will be further detailed in the Governor's upcoming State of the State address and Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal.