Bill > S04873

This bill requires the commissioner of the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) to collaborate with an independent firm to conduct a comprehensive study on disability services in New York State. The study will analyze the effectiveness of the Adaptive Behavior Assessment System (ABAS) in determining eligibility for services and collect detailed data about developmental disability services over the past five years. Specifically, the study will track the number of people who qualified for, applied for, or were deemed ineligible for services, including those who appealed ineligibility determinations. The independent firm must prepare a report within one year, breaking down findings by region, and submit it to key legislative leaders and the governor's office. The report must also include recommendations for potential improvements in service eligibility and determination processes. The commissioner is authorized to work with other state agencies to gather necessary resources and data, and will be responsible for creating rules and regulations to implement the study's requirements. The act is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of OPWDD's current service delivery and identify potential gaps or areas for improvement in supporting residents with developmental disabilities.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4873