Bill > S01761

This bill authorizes and directs the New York Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) to conduct a comprehensive study on the Family Assessment Response (FAR) program, a child welfare approach that differs from traditional child protective investigations. The study will evaluate the program's effectiveness by examining whether it accomplishes its intended goals, is being operated as designed, and identifies potential areas for improvement. Specifically, the OCFS, working with the inspector general, will investigate aspects such as the program's implementation, application and approval processes, and the potential for statewide expansion. The study will analyze data including the frequency of child protective service investigations following a FAR case and the percentage of families with subsequent substantiated maltreatment claims. The OCFS is required to publish a detailed report of its findings within one year, delivering it to the governor, senate president, and assembly speaker. The bill will take effect immediately and automatically expire two years after its effective date, ensuring a time-limited review of the FAR program's performance and potential statewide implementation.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1761