NY A07726

Changes alcohol and substance abuse screening (Section 132) to allow screening by phone or other digital means at the request of the applicant or recipient, rather than at the social services district's option.

Modifies formal alcohol or substance abuse assessments (Section 132) to be conducted by phone or other digital means at the request of the applicant or recipient, instead of at the district's discretion.

Requires social services officials to offer phone or other digital interview options for public assistance applications at the request of the applicant or recipient (Section 134-a).

Allows domestic violence screening inquiries (Section 349-a) to be conducted by phone or other digital means at the request of the applicant or recipient, rather than at the district's option.

Requires the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance to develop necessary protocols for telephonic screenings, assessments, and applications for public assistance by the effective date, with the full provisions taking effect 120 days after becoming law.