New York Assembly Bill A08861

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/9/25
• Refer: 6/9/25

Caption

Establishes the community accompaniment and post-release support program in the office for new Americans to provide grants to community-based organizations that offer services to individuals released from immigration detention; defines eligible services; requires the office to establish criteria for awarding grants; requires the office to submit an annual report on the program.

Impact

If enacted, A08861 would have a substantive impact on how state laws address the needs of individuals re-entering society after detention. By empowering community organizations to offer a range of support services, the bill aims to enhance the reintegration process for formerly detained immigrants, potentially improving their access to essential resources. This initiative is expected to promote better outcomes in terms of housing stability and employment, as well as foster smoother transitions into the community for released individuals.

Summary

A08861, also known as the Community Accompaniment and Post-Release Support Program Bill, aims to amend existing legislation by establishing a new program under the Office for New Americans. This program is designed to provide grants to community-based organizations that serve individuals who have been released from immigration detention. The proposed legislation specifies several eligible services that these organizations can provide, including case management, temporary housing assistance, mental health services, legal aid, job training, and access to food assistance, among others.

Contention

Despite its positive intent, A08861 could face contention primarily over funding and resource allocation for the community-based programs. Critics may argue about the sufficiency of state resources to implement and sustain the proposed program, especially considering the various services it aims to provide. Additionally, the bill's critics could raise concerns regarding the prioritization of support for immigrants over other community needs, thus fueling discussions around equity in state funding and resource distribution.