Bill > S03743

This bill establishes a co-navigation services program for individuals who are deaf-blind, designed to help them physically access their environment and make informed decisions. The program will provide specialized services through trained co-navigators who assist with communication and mobility, using the person's preferred communication mode (such as tactile sign language, protactile language, or auditory amplification). Social services districts will be required to offer these services and reimburse co-navigators using a tiered wage scale that considers their training and communication skills. Importantly, co-navigators will not perform personal care tasks, make decisions for the individual, or provide formal interpretation, but instead focus on supporting communication accessibility and environmental navigation. The program includes provisions for monitoring service quality, developing additional funding sources, and creating training programs for both co-navigators and deaf-blind individuals. The commissioner of social services may also establish an advisory committee that includes deaf-blind persons and other stakeholders to help guide the program's development and implementation. The bill will take effect 180 days after becoming law, with immediate authorization for developing necessary regulations.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3743