Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 2026, as Foster Care Month in the State of New York
Assembly Resolution No. 1380 is a memorializing resolution that asks Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 2026 as Foster Care Month in New York State. The resolution frames foster care as a matter of public concern and recognition, emphasizing the importance of children and youth in foster care, the role of foster parents and other caregivers, and the need to support permanent homes and lasting connections for young people.
The measure is largely ceremonial and declaratory rather than regulatory. It does not create new programs, funding, mandates, or changes to the Social Services Law or other state statutes. Instead, it expresses legislative support for National Foster Care Month and directs that a copy of the resolution be transmitted to the Governor for consideration of a proclamation.
Because this is a memorializing resolution, its legal impact on state law is minimal. It does not amend, repeal, or enact statutory provisions, and it does not impose obligations on agencies, counties, foster parents, or child welfare providers. Its primary effect is symbolic: it formally recognizes foster care awareness and encourages public attention to the needs of children and youth in foster care, including permanency, family connections, and community support.
The overall sentiment reflected in the bill text is strongly supportive and commendatory. The resolution uses affirming language about children as a valuable resource and highlights appreciation for foster parents, volunteers, mentors, policymakers, and child welfare professionals. No opposition or criticism appears in the available record, and there are no committee transcripts or votes indicating controversy or divided views.
There are no notable points of contention in the available materials. Because the resolution is nonbinding and commemorative, it does not appear to raise policy disputes over funding, eligibility, agency authority, or implementation. The only implicit policy emphasis is on public recognition and awareness of foster care issues, rather than on any substantive change to child welfare law or practice.