NY A07831

Increases earned income disregard for public assistance from 42% to no less than 51%, removing the restriction that limited this benefit only to households with dependent children.

Raises resource exemption limits for vehicle purchases from $4,650 to $12,000 and for education savings accounts from $1,004 to the greater of $5,100 or the maximum tuition assistance program award, with annual increase caps of $5,500 and $5,000 respectively.

Adds exemptions for New York 529 college savings plans, ABLE accounts, retirement accounts (IRAs, 401(k)s, 403(b)s, Keogh plans), and establishes that court-ordered child support withheld from income is not considered available income.

Reduces employability assessment completion timeframe from 90 to 30 days and requires work activities and employability plans to focus on preparing recipients for employment in fields providing a living wage, with annual reviews and reassessments if progress is insufficient.

Removes restrictions on work-experience programs requiring private sector employment availability and adds focus on education, occupational training, certifications, and addressing executive function deficits.