Bill > A03935

This bill aims to improve support for incarcerated individuals as they prepare for release by mandating assistance with applying for various social support programs. Specifically, correctional facilities will now be required to help inmates apply for safety net assistance, public assistance, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children), HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program), Supplemental Security Income, and state supplemental payments within 72 hours of a parole board approving an inmate's residence. Each correctional facility must assign a benefits navigator to help complete applications and can contract with non-profit providers to assist with the process. The bill also requires facilities to report detailed metrics about benefit applications, including the number of people deemed eligible for different types of benefits, the number of applications submitted, and reasons why applications might not have been filed. This legislation seeks to improve re-entry services and help formerly incarcerated individuals access critical social support programs that can aid in their successful transition back into the community.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3935