New York Assembly Bill A01130

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/25
• Refer: 1/9/25
• Report Pass: 5/6/25
• Refer: 5/6/25
• Report Pass: 5/27/25
• Refer: 5/27/25
• Report Pass: 5/29/25
• Engrossed: 5/29/25
• Refer: 5/29/25

Caption

Establishes the statewide group home families working group; provides that duties include informing and advising the commissioner as to matters of importance for persons with developmental disabilities residing in group homes and their families and guardians, providing recommendations for statewide and regional priorities and goals for individuals residing in group homes and families and guardians of individuals residing in group homes, advising the commissioner on such other matters related to group homes as the statewide group home families working group deems relevant, holding regional public meetings to solicit and receive input from residents of group homes and family members and guardians of residents of group homes, and any matter relating to the performance of their duties with relation to individuals in group homes and on policies, Establishes the statewide group home families working group; provides that duties include informing and advising the commissioner as to matters of importance for persons with developmental disabilities residing in group homes and their families and guardians, providing recommendations for statewide and regional priorities and goals for individuals residing in group homes and families and guardians of individuals residing in group homes, advising the commissioner on such other matters related to group homes as the statewide group home families working group deems relevant, holding public meetings to solicit and receive input from residents of group homes and family members and guardians of residents of group homes, and any matter relating to the performance of their duties with relation to individuals in group homes and on policies, goals, budget and operation of group homes.

Impact

By mandating the creation of this working group, A01130 seeks to enhance the representation and voice of group home residents and their families. This could lead to more responsive governance and create a feedback loop where the lived experiences of vulnerable populations are valued in the planning and execution of state services. The working group will also hold meetings to gather input from families and residents, reflecting a growing trend in legislative frameworks to incorporate public feedback into policy decisions. This approach aligns with efforts to promote transparency and community involvement in government.

Summary

A01130 establishes the statewide group home families working group within the framework of New York's mental hygiene law. The bill aims to provide a formal structure that includes a diverse group of members, specifically appointed to represent individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. This group will play a vital role in advising the Commissioner for People with Developmental Disabilities on pertinent issues related to care and services provided in group homes. The significance of this advisory role aims to ensure that families' concerns and experiences are integrated into state-level discussions and policy-making processes.

Contention

One notable point of contention may arise regarding the representation within the working group itself and the power dynamics between the appointed members and the state authorities. Critics may question whether the group can freely express its recommendations and experiences without fear of retaliation or dismissal from state officials. Additionally, the bill outlines that this group will not have executive, administrative, or appointive duties, potentially limiting its effectiveness, as its recommendations will need to be weighed against the priorities set by the state. Balancing the autonomy and influence of the group will be crucial for its intended impact.