NY A05461

Repeals the geographical limitation restricting re-engagement and conciliation procedures to cities with populations of one million or more, making these protections applicable statewide.

Requires social services districts to issue re-engagement notices before reducing public assistance benefits, allowing participants ten days to request conciliation conferences to address alleged non-compliance.

Establishes that districts must verify appropriate child care, transportation, and disability accommodations were available before imposing sanctions for failure to comply with work activity requirements.

Mandates conciliation conferences be mediated by independent entities or trained supervisory staff with no direct responsibility for the participant's case, with no sanctions imposed during the re-engagement process.

Provides participants whose sanctions continue for 30 or more days written notice of their option to immediately end sanctions by agreeing to comply with work requirements or notifying the district of an exemption.