Bill > S05951

This bill modifies existing social services law to provide more flexibility for parents and caretaker relatives receiving public assistance who are unable to meet work or participation requirements due to a lack of appropriate child care. Specifically, the bill changes language to ensure that parents or caretaker relatives of eligible children will not be penalized or deemed ineligible for public assistance if they cannot comply with work-related requirements because of an absence of suitable, appropriate, and reasonably located child care that aligns with their preferences. The bill broadens the definition from specifically referring to "women" or "he or she" to more gender-neutral language like "person" and "such applicant or recipient," and adds provisions that exempt parents from work participation requirements when child care barriers prevent their engagement. These changes aim to recognize the challenges parents face in balancing work and child care responsibilities, particularly for those receiving public assistance. The bill will take effect 120 days after becoming law, with immediate authorization for necessary regulatory preparations.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5951