Defines "closed period of eligibility" for purposes of supplemental security income for aged, blind, and disabled persons; includes such time period in the eligibility requirements of such supplemental security income.
Summary
This bill amends New York’s Social Services Law to define the term “closed period of eligibility” for supplemental security income (SSI) purposes. A closed period of eligibility is described as a Social Security Administration determination that a person was eligible for SSI benefits for a past period of time but is no longer eligible when the determination is made or when eligibility is communicated to the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.
The bill also updates the state’s SSI-related eligibility rules so that a person who has been awarded benefits for a closed period of eligibility is treated the same as a person currently receiving SSI benefits for purposes of meeting certain eligibility criteria for additional state payments. In effect, the measure clarifies that past SSI eligibility can satisfy the relevant state requirement, and it makes the change effective immediately.
Impact
The bill would amend sections 208 and 209 of the Social Services Law, which govern supplemental security income and related state supplemental payments. It expands the definition of an eligible individual to include someone who was eligible in the past and adds a new statutory definition for closed period of eligibility. The practical effect is to align state eligibility treatment with federal SSI determinations and potentially allow more individuals with retroactive or time-limited SSI awards to qualify for state supplemental benefits.
Sentiment
The available record shows no committee transcript and no recorded votes, so there is no documented debate or formal opposition in the materials provided. Based on the bill text, the measure appears technical and administrative in nature, aimed at clarifying eligibility rules rather than changing benefit levels or creating a new program. The overall tone of the proposal is neutral and corrective, suggesting an intent to ensure that eligible individuals are not excluded because their SSI award covers only a closed period.
Contention
No specific points of contention are documented in the provided materials. If concerns were to arise, they would likely center on administrative implementation, the scope of individuals newly treated as eligible for state supplemental payments, and any fiscal impact on the state. However, the bill text and available context do not identify any named supporters or opponents, and no committee discussion is available to indicate disagreement.
Same As
Defines "closed period of eligibility" for purposes of supplemental security income for aged, blind, and disabled persons; includes such time period in the eligibility requirements of such supplemental security income.