Bill > S07794

This bill establishes a new statewide group home families working group designed to provide input and guidance on matters related to individuals with developmental disabilities living in group homes. The working group will consist of 11 members, including representatives appointed by the governor, state legislative leaders, and the commissioner of the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities. Members must have personal or family experience living in or caring for someone in a group home. The group will have advisory duties, including informing the commissioner about important issues for group home residents and their families, providing recommendations for statewide and regional priorities, and soliciting input from current and former residents and their families. The working group is required to meet at least four times per year, with public meetings where interested parties can provide comments. Members will not be compensated but will be reimbursed for expenses, and they are required to submit annual reports to the commissioner, governor, and legislature by January 30th, beginning in 2027. The bill also amends existing mental hygiene law to incorporate this new working group into statewide planning processes, ensuring their recommendations are considered in comprehensive service plans. The working group is intended to give a voice to those directly impacted by group home services and help improve the quality of care and support for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7794