NY A10313

Expands the definition of "disability" in social services law to mean a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, and defines related terms including "physical or mental impairment," "major life activity," and "executive function."

Requires local social services districts to offer reasonable accommodations to applicants and recipients of public assistance who have a disability, including those who fail to complete required processes for receiving benefits.

Modifies disability determination procedures to allow individuals to self-identify as having a disability and provide medical documentation within 15 calendar days; prohibits districts from conditioning benefits eligibility on completion of screenings or assessments.

Requires health care practitioners conducting disability evaluations to render determinations within 10 days, specifying the individual's disability status, severity, functional limitations, and necessary accommodations; allows districts to accept medical documentation with specific diagnosis as sufficient evidence.

Limits job search and job readiness activities for recipients determined to have a disability to no more than six weeks per calendar year unless the district determines additional time is needed to find employment.

Changes assessment completion timeline for employability plans from 90 days to 30 days and requires districts to revisit plans annually to assess whether assigned work activities are helping individuals reach employment goals.