NY A04037

Establishes a 7.8% cost of living adjustment (COLA) for designated human services programs effective April 1, 2026 through March 31, 2027

Requires local government units and direct contract providers receiving the COLA to provide a targeted salary increase of at least 1.7% to eligible staff (support staff, direct care staff, clinical staff, and non-executive administrative staff)

Covers programs funded, licensed, or certified by seven state agencies: Office of Mental Health, Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, Office of Addiction Services and Supports, Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, Office of Children and Family Services, State Office for the Aging, and Department of Health

Eligible programs include mental health outpatient services, developmental disability residential and day services, addiction treatment programs, foster care, aging services, HIV/AIDS programs, early intervention, and numerous public health initiatives

Authorizes agency commissioners to recoup funding from providers that use COLA funds inconsistently with requirements, including through offset of other owed funds