Bill > A02726

This bill amends the public health law to expand the definition of "family" for health services provided by voluntary foster care agencies. Specifically, the bill broadens the scope of who can receive services to include both the birth family and foster family of children in foster care, as well as other families receiving child welfare services from authorized agencies or local departments of social services. The bill also includes students with disabilities placed by a committee on special education. The change allows authorized agencies that are approved by the office of children and family services to provide limited health-related services to a wider range of families involved in the child welfare system. The bill requires that these services include, but are not limited to, nursing and behavioral health services, and must meet specific health and safety standards. The legislation will take effect six months after becoming law, giving agencies time to adjust to the expanded service requirements.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2726