Bill > S08268

This bill modifies the social services law to prevent Westchester County from requiring homeless families with dependent children to use their earned income for room and board, to eliminate their need for temporary housing assistance, or as a condition for receiving temporary housing assistance. The bill specifically applies to various types of temporary housing providers including family shelters, hotels, emergency apartments, domestic violence shelters, and transitional units. Importantly, the bill ensures that the state will still reimburse Westchester County at a 100% rate for temporary housing, treating it as if the county were still collecting contributions from these households. The legislation does not create any additional requirements for Westchester County to provide temporary housing assistance and is set to be in effect for two years, beginning on the first day of January following its enactment. The primary purpose of this bill appears to be reducing financial barriers for homeless families seeking temporary housing by allowing them to retain their earned income without penalty or requirement to contribute it to housing costs.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8268