Bill > A04365

This bill amends the New York Social Services Law to allow appeals to the Department of Family Assistance to be conducted remotely through conference telephone, video conference, or similar communication systems, with the hearings to be led by either staff members or independent hearing officers. Specifically, the bill updates existing language to permit fair hearings to be conducted using technology that allows all participants to hear each other simultaneously, expanding the flexibility of how administrative appeals can be processed. The legislation provides the commissioner of the department the ability to designate staff members or independent fair hearing officers to consider and decide appeals with the same authority as the commissioner would have. The changes apply to various types of hearings related to permit, certificate, or license denials, suspensions, or revocations within the social services system. The bill will take effect immediately upon enactment, modernizing the process for administrative hearings by allowing remote participation while maintaining the substantive rights of individuals seeking appeal.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4365