Establishes the 2-1-1 essential community services hotline system

Showing the cosponsors who are on Agora, A to Z. The official record may list more.

• Democratic16

Shown in neutral colors by design; Agora is non-partisan.

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Pete Harckham says this is needed

In 2000, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) designated 2-1-1 as the three digit number for individuals and families, outside of the city of New York, to use when in need of resource and referral services related to health, behavioral health and human service needs. In 2010, the Public Service Commission designated 2-1-1 New York to oversee the development and operation of the 2-1-1 statewide referral system here in New York. Since then, 2-1-1 New York has been responsible for connecting millions of New Yorkers across the State with vital resource and refer- ral services. New Yorkers can turn to 2-1-1 at any time, even after state offices have closed or during a crisis, including during a natural disaster or other weather-related events. In addition to providing after-hour services, in many communities, 2-1-1 contracts directly with the local social services district to operate on their behalf, acting as the first point of contact to provide homeless and adult protective service information and referrals. Additionally, 2-1-1 is a vital resource during natural disasters, including weather related events, and helps the State coordinate their emergency responses as a member of the New York State Disaster Prepared- ness Commission. During the major snowstorms of 2025, the Governor promptly featured 2-1-1 in all her press releases as the number to contact for anyone seeking non-emergency services. Despite the vital role that 2-1-1 New York plays, the Executive Budget has continued to exclude funding, forcing United Way and 2-1-1 to advo- cate for inclusion in the Legislative One House Budgets year after year. This legislation would codify the 2-1-1 Essential Community Services Hotline system in statute, highlighting its role as an essential state service, with the ultimate goal of inclusion in the Executive Budget, ensuring 2-1-1's ability to continue to operate on behalf of 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.