Bill > S08651

This bill establishes the Office of New York State Benefits Coordination within the executive department, headed by a director appointed by the governor, to create a centralized system for managing state benefit programs. The office will be responsible for documenting all existing benefit programs, maintaining a single online portal with a staffed phone line to identify all state benefits, and tracking program funding and performance. It will also operate a universal benefits application designed to streamline the application process, making it accessible in multiple languages and formats, and coordinating with various agencies and service providers. The portal will include screening tools for wellness and mental health, a provider-facing website, data tracking for individuals enrolled in multiple benefits, and integration with transportation and benefits education resources, aiming to identify potential benefits for applicants even if they haven't applied for them. All state agencies are required to cooperate with the new office.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8651