Bill > S06481

This bill requires the commissioner of corrections to conduct a comprehensive study on the relationship between the corrections system and the child welfare system. The study will involve surveying at least 10% of incarcerated individuals in state, county, and municipal correctional facilities about their prior experiences in the child welfare system. The survey will collect data on participants' previous out-of-home placements (such as foster care, kinship care, detention facilities, and group homes), the length and timing of those placements, and demographic information including age, ethnicity, and gender. The commissioner must ensure participant confidentiality through anonymous, self-administered questionnaires and obtain informed consent by clearly explaining the study's risks and benefits. By June 30th of the year following the study's implementation, the commissioner is required to submit a written report to the governor, senate president, and assembly speaker detailing the findings, conclusions, and recommendations about the connections between corrections and child welfare systems. The bill will take effect 90 days after becoming law.

Education, Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6481