Bill > A03530

This bill establishes a new program of tiered eligibility for services offered by the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) specifically designed to support individuals with learning disabilities and complex neurological impairments. The bill recognizes that many such individuals currently lack essential support services, which can lead to negative life outcomes like incarceration, public assistance dependency, and substance abuse. The proposed program consists of two tiers: Tier One provides up to six months of intensive service navigation, which involves connecting individuals to appropriate services like mental health support, parenting classes, and vocational services. If ongoing needs are identified, the individual moves to Tier Two, which continues intensive support and prepares the individual for potential full OPWDD service eligibility through comprehensive assessments of adaptive behaviors and learning capabilities. The program aims to provide targeted, flexible support that can be adjusted based on individual needs, with the ultimate goal of helping these individuals develop skills, stabilize their situations, and potentially qualify for long-term services. The bill requires the OPWDD commissioner to develop a reimbursement methodology for service providers and to consult with associations representing individuals with learning disabilities during program development. The program will take effect 180 days after becoming law.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3530