Bill > A02243

This bill establishes a joint coordinator for asylum seeker services, to be appointed by the Governor of New York and the Mayor of New York City, who will be responsible for coordinating and integrating services for asylum seekers across multiple state agencies. The coordinator's duties will include managing comprehensive support for asylum seekers, covering areas such as intake, resettlement, healthcare, housing, education, language services, transportation, and access to federal programs. The bill specifically defines "asylum seeker" as an individual who has left their home country to seek temporary or permanent residence elsewhere, has applied for asylum under U.S. Code 8 § 1158, or meets the refugee definition in the Immigration and Nationality Act. The coordinator will work with agencies including the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, Departments of State, Education, and Health, Office of Children and Family Services, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, and coordinate with local and federal agencies to provide a systematic and comprehensive response to asylum seekers' needs. The bill also includes provisions for the coordinator to advocate for federal immigration legislation and policies, with the goal of better supporting and integrating asylum seekers in New York State.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2243