NY A08318

Expands eligibility for temporary assistance to needy families (TANF), safety net assistance, and medical assistance to include noncitizens and their spouses and unmarried children under 21 who entered the US within the previous five years (seven years for medical assistance).

Requires noncitizens to be confirmed victims of human trafficking by state authorities or provide a sworn statement of victimization (trafficking, domestic violence, or serious crimes) with corroborating evidence such as federal agency receipt notices or attorney attestations.

Allows benefits to continue for the duration of pending immigration relief petitions or applications (T visa, U visa, Violence Against Women Act petitions, special immigrant juvenile status, or asylum claims).

Provides up to two years of benefits for noncitizens who have not yet filed immigration relief petitions, with benefits discontinuing upon final denial of the immigration petition or application.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment.