Bill > A04864

This bill directs the New York state comptroller to withhold $8 million in payments to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation and/or the federal Treasury Department for each day that the federal government fails to grant employment documentation or authorization to asylum seekers in New York City's custody. The bill defines key terms such as "asylum seeker" (an individual who has left their home country to seek residence elsewhere and has applied for or is eligible to apply for asylum), and specifies that employment authorization can include temporary protected status, refugee status, or a new federal law making asylum seekers eligible for work within 30 days of applying for asylum. The legislation is designed to pressure the federal government to provide work authorization for asylum seekers, with the withheld funds serving as a financial incentive. The act will automatically expire once every adult asylum seeker in New York City's custody receives an employment authorization document or becomes eligible for one within 30 days, provided they are not currently undergoing removal proceedings. The mayor of New York City is required to notify the legislative bill drafting commission once the federal government has complied with the employment authorization requirements.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4864