Bill > A03945

This bill enacts the "Rural Caregiver Relief Act," which provides comprehensive support for unpaid family caregivers in rural areas of New York through five key provisions. Part A establishes a $3,000 tax credit for qualified caregivers who provide at least 20 hours per week of care to a family member with activity of daily living limitations, specifically targeting caregivers in rural areas (defined as counties with less than 200,000 population or towns with population densities of 150 or fewer persons per square mile). Part B creates a workplace flexibility grant program that allows businesses to receive up to $100,000 in grants to support employees who are informal caregivers by offering remote work options, paid leave, and flexible schedules. Part C requires the director of aging to review and improve support services for informal caregivers in rural areas, including evaluating education, respite care, counseling, and mental health resources. Part D introduces a transportation assistance stipend for informal caregivers in rural areas to help cover travel-related expenses for medical appointments and errands. Part E appropriates $25 million to fund the implementation of these programs, with the office for aging responsible for managing and distributing the funds. The bill aims to provide comprehensive support for family caregivers in rural communities by addressing financial, workplace, and practical challenges they face.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3945