NY A09729

Amends the definition of "transitional care" in the Mental Hygiene Law to remove outdated eligibility criteria tied to July 1, 1996, making the provisions apply to all eligible youth aging out of foster care or residential educational placements.

Requires the Office of Children and Family Services to develop and implement procedures to help persons aging out of foster care or residential schools locate appropriate residential placements or service plans before they reach the qualifying age for transitional care.

Expands notification requirements when removing a person from transitional care, mandating certified mail notification at least 45 days before placement change with description of the new placement and detailed information about the administrative appeal process.

Establishes a formal administrative appeal process with a hearing to be scheduled within five days of a written appeal request, with at least ten days' notice, and requires the Commissioner to issue a written determination within thirty days of the hearing that is subject to judicial review under CPLR Article 78.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment.