Bill > A02538

This bill amends the New York Social Services Law to prohibit county commissioners of social services from requiring finger imaging as a condition for applying for or receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, which is a federal program that helps low-income individuals and families purchase food. SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, provides electronic benefits that can be used like a debit card to buy groceries. The bill specifically adds a new paragraph to existing law that explicitly bans the practice of finger imaging, which involves taking digital impressions of an applicant's or recipient's fingerprints as a method of verifying identity and preventing fraud. By removing this requirement, the bill aims to reduce potential barriers to accessing nutritional assistance and may address privacy concerns associated with biometric data collection. The provisions of this bill will take effect on September 1, 2026, giving state and local agencies time to adjust their administrative processes accordingly.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2538