New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S00958

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Relates to making certain housing programs available regardless of immigration status; provides that local social services districts in a city with a population of five million or more shall be permitted to offer certain housing programs to individuals or families who would be eligible but for a federal law restricting eligibility based on immigration.

Summary

Bill S00958 proposes to amend the social services law in New York to allow local social services districts in cities with populations of five million or more to provide housing programs to individuals and families regardless of their immigration status. This legislation aims to circumvent federal restrictions that limit eligibility for certain benefits based on immigration status, thereby expanding access to housing assistance for undocumented individuals and families who would otherwise qualify for such programs.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the landscape of housing assistance in New York by ensuring that local social services districts can offer programs to a broader demographic, specifically targeting those affected by immigration status. The bill would require local districts to implement plans approved by the state, which could lead to increased funding and resources allocated for housing support, potentially alleviating homelessness and housing insecurity among immigrant populations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S00958 appears to be mixed, with proponents arguing that it is a necessary step towards inclusivity and support for vulnerable populations, while opponents express concerns about the implications for federal law compliance and the potential strain on local resources. The lack of recorded votes or committee discussions suggests that the bill may still be in the early stages of consideration, leaving room for further debate.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the legality of providing state-funded benefits to individuals who are undocumented, with critics arguing that it may conflict with federal immigration laws. Supporters, however, contend that the bill addresses a pressing need for housing assistance among marginalized communities and emphasizes the moral obligation to support all residents, regardless of immigration status.

Companion Bills

NY A01503

Same As Relates to making certain housing programs available regardless of immigration status; provides that local social services districts in a city with a population of five million or more shall be permitted to offer certain housing programs to individuals or families who would be eligible but for a federal law restricting eligibility based on immigration.

Previously Filed As

NY S01631

Relates to making certain housing programs available regardless of immigration status; provides that local social services districts in a city with a population of five million or more shall be permitted to offer certain housing programs to individuals or families who would be eligible but for a federal law restricting eligibility based on immigration.

NY A01503

Relates to making certain housing programs available regardless of immigration status; provides that local social services districts in a city with a population of five million or more shall be permitted to offer certain housing programs to individuals or families who would be eligible but for a federal law restricting eligibility based on immigration.

NY ACR79

Condemns federal rule proposal that would force families of mixed immigration status who reside in certain affordable housing to either separate or face eviction.

NY A11137

Requires community median income be used by certain affordable housing programs in a city having a population of one million or more; requires affordable housing programs using state funding to cover 33 percent or more of the construction costs of a building or buildings to use community median income to determine income eligibility and rent levels; exempts programs utilizing federal funding.

NY A01504

Removes the requirement that rent arrears be repaid for social services districts located in a municipality with a population of five million or more.

NY S01458

Removes the requirement that rent arrears be repaid for social services districts located in a municipality with a population of five million or more.

NY A00176

Allows for state agencies, municipalities, and authorities to provide state or local public benefits regardless of immigration status.

NY H5225

Limits the ability for any federal immigration authority to investigate, detain, apprehend or arrest any individuals for potential violations of federal immigration laws without a judicial warrant within certain protected locations.

NY S0537

Limits the ability for any federal immigration authority to investigate, detain, apprehend or arrest any individuals for potential violations of federal immigration laws without a judicial warrant within certain protected locations.

NY S09491

Allows for state agencies, municipalities, and authorities to provide state or local public benefits regardless of immigration status.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.