Bill > S07473

This bill amends the New York Social Services Law to protect survivors of childhood sexual abuse by ensuring that any financial settlements they receive will not be counted as income or resources when determining their eligibility for social services benefits. Specifically, the bill adds a provision that, to the extent permitted by federal law, monetary settlements related to childhood sexual abuse will be exempt from consideration in calculating benefits under state social services programs. This means that survivors who receive compensation for their past trauma will not have their financial support from government programs reduced or eliminated because of those settlement funds. The bill aims to provide additional financial protection and support for survivors by preventing their settlements from being treated as assets that could disqualify them from receiving essential social services benefits. The legislation is designed to take effect immediately, with some technical provisions about the timing of its implementation.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7473