NY A03342

Increases earned income disregard for public assistance recipients from 42% to no less than 51%, removing the limitation to households with dependent children.

Removes the six-month time limit on exempting real property that households are making good faith efforts to sell and expands resource exemptions to include retirement accounts (IRAs, 401(k)s, 403(b)s, Keogh plans).

Increases resource exemption limits for vehicle purchase accounts from $4,650 to $12,000 and for education savings accounts to the greater of $5,100 or the maximum tuition assistance program award.

Allows resource accumulation of up to $5,500 annually at recertification (capped at the federal poverty level) and education account accumulation of up to $5,000 annually (capped at average SUNY cost).

Requires assessments of public assistance recipients be completed within 30 days (reduced from 90 days) and mandates employability plans focus on preparing individuals for employment in fields providing a living wage, with annual plan reviews and reassignments if work activities are not progressing toward employment goals.