NY S01836

Establishes a new Office of the Advocate for People with Disabilities within the Department of State to advocate on behalf of persons with disabilities and ensure they can exercise all rights and responsibilities as state citizens.

Designates the office as the state's coordinator for implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act and requires it to ensure state programs do not discriminate against and are accessible to persons with disabilities.

Requires the office to review proposed legislation and regulations, evaluate their impact on persons with disabilities, and submit comments to relevant state agencies with recommendations for modifications.

Mandates all state agencies cooperate with the office and requires the office to ensure persons with disabilities receive services in the most integrated setting appropriate to their needs.

Appoints a director selected by the governor with authority to hire and compensate staff within appropriated amounts; makes the director chair of the Most Integrated Setting Coordinating Council, effective April 1, 2022.