NY A02583

Defines "unaccompanied minors" as children under 18 with no lawful immigration status who were in federal custody and either unaccompanied or separated from parents/guardians upon U.S. entry.

Requires authorized agencies and out-of-state care providers to provide unaccompanied minors released to New York sponsors with referrals to immigration services liaisons, informational materials about available supports, and notification of right to legal counsel.

Establishes entitlement to free legal representation through completion of immigration proceedings, including appeals, with representation costs as a state charge paid by the Office for New Americans.

Mandates eligible health and behavioral health services including mental health rehabilitation, trauma-informed care, counseling, legal assistance, language services, employment help, and educational enrollment support.

Requires the Office for New Americans to establish an immigration services liaison to connect unaccompanied minors with available supports and services, and mandates training on trauma-informed care and adverse childhood experiences for providers.