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Bill > A00748


NY A00748

NY A00748
Establishes the kinship legal network program in the office of children and family services to provide legal services to kinship caregivers.


summary

Introduced
01/08/2025
In Committee
01/08/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025-2026 General Assembly

Bill Summary

AN ACT to amend the executive law, in relation to establishing the kinship legal network program

AI Summary

This bill establishes a kinship legal network program within the Office of Children and Family Services to provide comprehensive legal support for kinship caregivers, who are relatives or close family friends caring for children outside of traditional parental care. The program will offer free legal representation to kinship caregivers in various critical areas, including custody and guardianship, child support, abuse and neglect cases, adoption proceedings, public benefits eligibility, and foster care certification. The state will fund the program with at least $8 million annually, distributed to eligible non-profit legal services organizations and agencies serving kinship caregivers. Each organization can receive up to 15% of the funding for administrative activities like data collection, preparing reports, hosting task force meetings, and providing technical assistance. The program will also establish a statewide information and referral network. The Commissioner of Children and Family Services is required to submit biannual reports to legislative committees, detailing the program's implementation, the number of caregivers assisted, legal outcomes, and the methods used to resolve legal matters. The bill aims to provide crucial legal support to kinship caregivers who play a vital role in providing stable and supportive environments for children who cannot live with their biological parents.

Committee Categories

Education

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

referred to children and families (on 01/08/2025)

bill text


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