Bill > A04456

This bill proposes to amend the New York social services law by establishing new background check requirements for undocumented immigrants seeking access to certain state-funded resources and assistance programs. Specifically, undocumented immigrants would be ineligible for state payments for aged, blind, and disabled persons, family assistance, safety net assistance, medical assistance, and other social services unless they submit to and fully cooperate with a background check. The background check would evaluate whether the individual: (a) has a substance use disorder without receiving treatment, (b) has been a member of a totalitarian party or terrorist organization, (c) has been convicted of a felony-level crime, or (d) has falsely claimed citizenship or legal resident status. The bill would take effect on the first day of January following its passage, with provisions allowing state agencies to prepare implementing regulations in advance. This legislation aims to impose additional screening measures on undocumented immigrants accessing state social services by establishing more stringent eligibility criteria based on personal and criminal history.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4456