NY A07489

Repeals section 303-a of the social services law and creates new section 131-y to establish a duty for social services officials to provide assistance for food and veterinary expenses for guide dogs, hearing dogs, and service dogs.

Eligible recipients include persons with disabilities using such dogs who receive federal Supplemental Security Income benefits, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, medical assistance for needy persons, and/or additional state payments.

Department regulations must establish a minimum monthly assistance amount of at least $50 and specify the method, frequency, and eligibility determination procedures for the assistance.

Assistance is not available to individuals whose earned income has been exempted under federal law or regulation.

Defines "service dog" as any dog under the control of the person using or training it that has been or is being individually trained to perform work or tasks for a person with a disability, regardless of certification status.

Full amounts expended by social services districts, including administrative costs, shall be reimbursed by the state.

Takes effect 180 days after enactment.