Bill > A02497

This bill establishes a 19-member fiscal cliff task force to study and address sudden decreases in public benefits that occur when individuals experience small increases in earnings. The task force will include representatives from the state senate, assembly, governor's office, and various state agencies, with members appointed to ensure geographic representation. The task force is charged with conducting a comprehensive study of fiscal cliffs across multiple state assistance programs, including SNAP, HEAP, housing assistance, tax credits, Medicaid, child care subsidies, and other income-related services. They will investigate the causes of fiscal cliffs, examining how current program structures, monetary allotments, asset tests, and income thresholds can inadvertently discourage work and economic advancement. The task force is required to develop recommendations for reducing or eliminating these fiscal cliffs, which may include legislative amendments, policy modifications, and changes to tax credit calculations. The group will produce a preliminary report by January 1, 2027, and a final report by September 1, 2027, both of which will include specific legislative proposals. Members will serve without compensation but will be reimbursed for expenses, and the task force will meet at least quarterly. The bill is designed to be temporary, automatically expiring three years after becoming law.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2497