NY A02461

Allows incarcerated individuals to apply for safety net assistance and state supplemental payments at least six months before their earliest expected release date, with applications placed on hold if parole is denied and reactivated upon parole grant.

Requires the Department of Corrections to provide assistance completing applications for safety net assistance, supplemental security income, and state supplemental payments, and may contract with not-for-profit providers to help incarcerated individuals through the application and appeals processes.

Establishes a five-year reintegration pilot program in three correctional facilities (one female, two male) serving at least 100 voluntary participants, providing in-depth needs assessments, mental health and substance use disorder services, job training, housing assistance, and six months of post-release support.

Mandates each correctional facility report to the legislature on re-entry services provided, including metrics on the number of people served and services delivered.

Requires annual reports to the governor and legislature on the pilot program's effectiveness, outcomes, participant success in obtaining housing and employment, and recommendations for reducing recidivism.