Bill > A02109

This bill amends the social services law to provide a more supportive process for victims of domestic violence when interacting with social services agencies. The key changes include allowing individuals to self-attest to experiencing domestic violence without requiring extensive external corroboration, mandating that domestic violence liaisons conduct assessments based on the individual's own account, and granting waivers for program requirements that might make it difficult for victims to escape abusive situations. The bill requires social services districts to use a universal screening form to identify potential domestic violence victims and provide them with voluntary, confidential support services. Importantly, the domestic violence liaison must now grant waivers for requirements like residency, child support cooperation, and employment training based on the individual's assessment of their situation. The bill also protects victims' privacy by ensuring that information about domestic violence cannot be shared with outside parties without the individual's written consent, except as required by law. These provisions aim to reduce barriers for domestic violence survivors seeking public assistance and provide them with more flexibility and support in managing their circumstances.