Bill > A00726

This bill introduces two key provisions to enhance legal protections and accountability in child-related legal proceedings. First, it requires that parents of minors involved in family court proceedings have access to legal representation, either through counsel of their own choosing or through court-assigned attorneys. This legal representation would be available throughout the entire legal process, including pre-filing stages and arraignment proceedings, ensuring parents have legal support from the earliest stages of a case. Second, the bill mandates that all interactions between child protective services (CPS) and the children they are investigating must be videotaped, both at the state level through the Office of Children and Family Services and in New York City through the Administration for Children's Services. The purpose of these video recordings is to promote transparency and accountability in child welfare investigations, providing a clear record of interactions that can help protect the rights and well-being of children and ensure proper conduct by social services professionals. The bill would take effect immediately upon passage.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A726