NY A02036

Raises the reimbursement benefit for burial expenses from a maximum of $500 to between $3,000 and $4,000 for public assistance recipients whose relatives or friends arrange the burial.

Expands eligibility to include persons who can demonstrate an inability to pay as determined by the commissioner, in addition to those receiving federal supplemental security income or state supplemental payments.

Removes immigration status as a factor in determining eligibility for burial assistance benefits.

Requires applications for assistance during a state disaster emergency to be processed, approved or denied, and direct payment made to funeral service providers within fifteen days, with no reimbursement payments allowed during such emergencies.