NY A00315

Creates new section 138 of Social Services Law requiring each local department of social services (LDSS) to establish and maintain access to benefits and services for all persons with HIV infection who request assistance and meet eligibility requirements.

Mandates intensive case management with ratios not exceeding one caseworker/supervisor to 25 family cases (or 34 total cases) and monthly transportation and nutrition allowances of at least $193 for HIV-positive Medicaid-eligible persons.

Requires LDSS to provide access to housing, Medicaid, long-term care, personal care services, nutrition assistance, and other benefits at single locations including field offices, applicants' homes, and hospitals, with benefits provided within 20 business days of receiving complete applications when no other timeline is specified.

Establishes procedures including immediate receipt of application documentation, policy manuals with staff training within 60 days, a bill of rights for persons with HIV posted in LDSS offices, and an 11-member advisory board to monitor service delivery.

Modifies rent payment requirements so persons with HIV infection pay no more than 30 percent of monthly income toward rent and requires state reimbursement of 50-100 percent of safety net assistance expenditures for emergency shelter, transportation, and nutrition for homeless or at-risk persons with HIV infection.