NY A09853

Requires local departments of social services to conduct a full review of applicant eligibility before denying shelter at homeless projects that receive state financial assistance, including a thorough review of housing history.

Mandates that departments provide written documentation of ineligibility reasons and make necessary efforts to assist ineligible applicants in applying for other appropriate governmental assistance, including contacting unknown individuals to complete housing applications.

Directs the commissioner to develop employee training on determining applicant eligibility and conducting sufficient housing history searches, with new employees required to receive training within thirty days of their start date.

Takes effect thirty days after becoming law, with authorization for the commissioner to adopt necessary rules and regulations for implementation.