Bill > S07619

This bill amends the social services law to provide a more supportive process for victims of domestic violence when interacting with social service agencies. The bill allows individuals to self-attest to experiencing domestic violence and introduces a more compassionate screening and assessment process. Under the new provisions, when an individual indicates they are a victim of domestic violence, they will be referred to a trained domestic violence liaison who will inform them of available voluntary services. The liaison will conduct an assessment based on the individual's own attestation or supporting evidence, and can grant waivers for various public assistance program requirements, such as residency, child support cooperation, and employment training requirements. These waivers are designed to help domestic violence victims avoid additional hardship and can last for at least four months, with the possibility of extension. The bill also emphasizes confidentiality, stating that information about domestic violence victims cannot be shared with outside parties unless legally required or with the individual's written consent. This approach aims to create a more supportive and trauma-informed system for helping domestic violence survivors access social services.