Relates to assistance programs for individuals being released from correctional facilities

• Democratic26
• Republican1

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Cordell Cleare says this is needed

Access to public benefits is a critical component of successful reentry for individuals returning to the community from incarceration. Current- ly, many formerly incarcerated individuals face significant barriers in accessing benefits such as Public Assistance (PA), Supplemental Nutri- tion Assistance Program (SNAP), Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). These barriers contribute to financial instability and housing insecurity. By mandating proactive benefits navigation at the point of residence approval, this legislation . aims to address these systemic challenges and set individuals on a path toward stability and reintegration. Individuals leaving incarcera- tion are disproportionately at risk of poverty and homelessness. Accord- ing to data from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 60% of formerly incarcer- ated individuals experience unemployment from the time of release to four years after release, this is 4 times more than the general popu- lation's peak unemployment rate during the pandemic. Without income or immediate access to benefits, many find themselves unable to afford basic needs like food, shelter, and transportation. This lack of stability decreases the likelihood of desistance and perpetuates cycles incarceration, further burdening state resources. This legislation ensures that incarcerated individuals have access to benefits navigators who will assist them with completing and submitting necessary applica- tions prior to their release. By coordinating with not-for-profit providers and submitting applications for safety net benefits within 72 hours of residence approval, this bill ensures that individuals are connected to essential support as soon as they reenter their communi- ties.Additionally, requiring the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) to report on the outcomes of these efforts including metrics on eligibility and applications, will provide the transparency and accountability necessary to evaluate and improve the program. Providing structured reentry services, including benefits access, has been shown to reduce recidivism and improve outcomes for returning indi- viduals. This legislation reflects a commitment to public safety and fiscal responsibility by addressing the root causes of reoffending and reducing reliance on emergency shelters and other costly interventions. By empowering individuals to access the benefits they need, New York State will be fostering a more equitable and sustainable reentry system. This legislation is an essential step toward dismantling the systemic barriers that prevent system-impacted individuals from achieving stabil- ity and self-sufficiency. It is a forward-thinking approach to reentry that benefits not only formerly incarcerated individuals but all New Yorkers.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.