Bill > A05434

This bill requires the New York Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) to provide free, durable luggage to foster care youth in several specific situations, including when they first enter foster care, move between placements, exit foster care, or go to college. The bill defines "luggage" as a new or like-new suitcase, duffel bag, or backpack that is not a disposable bag, trash bag, or cardboard box. OCFS must distribute these luggage items to social services districts, which will then distribute them to foster children in their jurisdiction. The bill also mandates that if a foster youth reports their luggage as lost, stolen, or damaged, OCFS may provide a replacement. Additionally, the bill requires OCFS to submit an annual report to the governor and legislature by December 1st, detailing the luggage distribution, including the total number of foster youth who received luggage, broken down by demographic information, the number of youth still using disposable bags or boxes, and information about the luggage supply and management. The act will take effect 120 days after becoming law, with the goal of ensuring foster youth have appropriate, dignified means of transporting their personal belongings.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5434