BILL NUMBER: S8576
SPONSOR: SANDERS
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the social services law, in relation to providing public
assistance for home internet service
 
PURPOSE:
This legislation expands the list of services eligible to be covered by
temporary assistance to include internet service.
 
SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:
Section one amends subdivision 1 of section 131-a of the social services
law.
Section two amends paragraph (b) of subdivision 2 of section 131-a of
the social services law.
Section three sets forth the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
In the 21st century, Internet is no longer a luxury, it has become a
necessity for individuals to pay bills, apply for work, to complete
schoolwork and much more. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic as public
libraries were closed, the necessity of home Internet access became even
more evident. However, the cost of Internet service can is often prohib-
itive for low-income New Yorkers.
Individuals receiving temporary assistance may be eligible for monthly
grants to help cover the costs of shelter, fuel for heating and meal
costs, however internet service costs are not covered. This legislation
will help families in need of assistance receive Internet access by
making it a covered temporary assistance expense.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
Undetermined.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
A.5871 of 23-24 Session
A.8103 Of 21-22 Session (ROSENTHAL)
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
90 days.

Statutes affected:
S8576: 131-a social services law, 131-a(1) social services law, 131-a(2) social services law