Bill > S04078

This bill establishes a "gate money program" that provides financial support to eligible incarcerated individuals upon their release from a state correctional facility. Specifically, individuals who have served at least six months and have not previously received these funds can receive a monthly stipend of $425 for up to six months, with a maximum total payment of $2,550. The initial payment will be made in cash or check immediately upon release, with subsequent monthly payments managed by the community supervision agency. The stipend will be adjusted annually for inflation and will not count against an individual's eligibility for public assistance programs. The bill also creates a special gate money fund within the state treasury, initially funded with $25 million, to support the program. Importantly, the program does not apply to individuals released to another state or federal custody. The Department of Corrections and Community Supervision is required to collect data on program participation and submit an annual report to state leadership. The program will take effect 180 days after becoming law, with preparatory rule-making allowed to begin immediately.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4078