Bill > A00481

This bill requires social services districts to contract with non-residential domestic violence programs (non-profit organizations providing services like counseling, advocacy, and referrals to domestic violence victims) to deliver outreach and education programs specifically targeting students in public and private high schools. The bill modifies existing social services law to mandate that these programs provide information, referral services, advocacy, counseling, and education about domestic violence to high school students. Importantly, the bill stipulates that when calculating the required clientele composition of such non-residential programs (which normally must consist of at least 70% domestic violence victims), the students in these school-based prevention programs will be disregarded. The state will provide full reimbursement for these programs, meaning social services districts can implement them without financial burden, contingent on appropriate state budget appropriations. The bill will take effect 120 days after becoming law, with provisions allowing for immediate preparation of necessary regulations.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A481