NY State Senate Bill 2021-S1852B

Archive: Last Bill Status Via A6710 - Passed Senate

Introduced
- In Committee Assembly
- In Committee Senate
- On Floor Calendar Assembly
- On Floor Calendar Senate
- Passed Assembly
- Passed Senate
Delivered to Governor
Signed By Governor

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Actions

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	Assembly Actions - Lowercase Senate Actions - UPPERCASE
Jun 01, 2022	returned to assembly passed senate 3rd reading cal.1740 substituted for s1852b
Jun 01, 2022	substituted by a6710b ordered to third reading cal.1740 committee discharged and committed to rules
Apr 25, 2022	print number 1852b
Apr 25, 2022	amend (t) and recommit to finance
Apr 18, 2022	print number 1852a
Apr 18, 2022	amend (t) and recommit to finance
Jan 05, 2022	referred to finance
Jan 16, 2021	referred to finance

Votes

- Jun 1, 2022 - Floor Vote
  A6710
  
  63
  
  Aye
  
  0
  
  Nay
  
  0
  
  Absent
  
  0
  
  Excused
  
  0
  
  Abstained
  - - Floor Vote: Jun 1, 2022
      
      aye (63)
      
      Addabbo Jr.
      
      Akshar
      
      Bailey
      
      Biaggi
      
      Borrello
      
      Boyle
      
      Breslin
      
      Brisport
      
      Brooks
      
      Brouk
      
      Cleare
      
      Comrie
      
      Cooney
      
      Felder
      
      Gallivan
      
      Gaughran
      
      Gianaris
      
      Gounardes
      
      Griffo
      
      Harckham
      
      Helming
      
      Hinchey
      
      Hoylman-Sigal
      
      Jackson
      
      Jordan
      
      Kaminsky
      
      Kaplan
      
      Kavanagh
      
      Kennedy
      
      Krueger
      
      Lanza
      
      Liu
      
      Mannion
      
      Martucci
      
      Mattera
      
      May
      
      Mayer
      
      Myrie
      
      O'Mara
      
      Oberacker
      
      Ortt
      
      Palumbo
      
      Parker
      
      Persaud
      
      Ramos
      
      Rath III
      
      Reichlin-Melnick
      
      Ritchie
      
      Rivera
      
      Ryan
      
      Salazar
      
      Sanders Jr.
      
      Savino
      
      Sepúlveda
      
      Serino
      
      Serrano
      
      Skoufis
      
      Stavisky
      
      Stec
      
      Stewart-Cousins
      
      Tedisco
      
      Thomas
      
      Weik
  Jun 1, 2022 - Rules Committee Vote
  S1852B
  
  21
  
  Aye
  
  0
  
  Nay
  
  0
  
  Aye with Reservations
  
  0
  
  Absent
  
  0
  
  Excused
  
  0
  
  Abstained
  - - Rules Committee Vote: Jun 1, 2022
      
      aye (21)
      
      Addabbo Jr.
      
      Bailey
      
      Biaggi
      
      Boyle
      
      Breslin
      
      Comrie
      
      Gallivan
      
      Gianaris
      
      Griffo
      
      Kennedy
      
      Krueger
      
      Lanza
      
      Liu
      
      Mayer
      
      O'Mara
      
      Ortt
      
      Parker
      
      Ritchie
      
      Savino
      
      Sepúlveda
      
      Stewart-Cousins

Bill Amendments

Original

B (Active)

co-Sponsors

2021-S1852 - Details

See Assembly Version of this Bill:: A6710
Law Section:: Executive Law
Laws Affected:: Add Art 26-C §§755 - 759, rpld §559, Exec L; amd §491, Soc Serv L
Versions Introduced in Other Legislative Sessions:: 2017-2018: A8813
2019-2020: S8025, A3472
2023-2024: S7251, S8207, A5683

2021-S1852 - Summary

Establishes the commission of the deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing; requires the commission of the deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing to transmit complaints in matters affecting the deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing communities to the vulnerable persons' central register; repeals provisions relating to the New York state interagency coordinating council for services to persons who are deaf, deaf-blind, or hard of hearing.

2021-S1852 - Sponsor Memo

                                
 
BILL NUMBER: S1852

SPONSOR: SKOUFIS
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the executive law, in relation to establishing the
office of the deaf and hard of hearing; and to repeal section 559 of the
executive law relating to the New York state interagency coordinating
council for services to persons who are deaf, deaf-blind, or hard of
hearing

 
PURPOSE:

This bill would create the office of the deaf and hard of hearing.

 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:

Section one of the bill amends the executive law by adding a new article
28 as it relates to the creation of the office of the deaf and hard of
Hearing. The office, led by an executive director, would advise the
governor and legislature on how the state can meet the needs of the deaf

and hard of hearing communities. The office would have several responsi-
bilities including creating a statewide plan for delivering servic-
es,maintaining a website, a referral system for complaints, expanding
employment opportunities and developing policies for the governor and
legislature. The office shall submit an annual report on their progress
to the governor and legislature.

The bill also sets up a deaf and hard of hearing advisory council
comprised of eleven members that will make recommendation on deaf and
hard of hearing related issues.

Section two of the bill repeals section 559 of the executive law.

Section three of the bill relates to the effective date.

 
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ORIGINAL AND AMENDED VERSION (IF APPLICABLE):

n/a

 
JUSTIFICATION:

There is currently no active location in State government dedicated to
serving the deaf or hard of hearing community. In 2007, an interagency
council was created to streamline services to deaf or hard of hearing
New Yorkers. It was originally under the administration of the NYS
Commission on Quality of Care and Advocacy for Persons with Disabilities
(CQCAPD) and was subsequently moved to the newly created Justice Center
in 2012. Since the reorganization, the Interagency Coordinating Council
for Services to Persons who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind, or Hard of Hearing is
defunct and has not met in years. This new Office would replace the
council.

The Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing would provide deaf or hard of
hearing New Yorkers with a one stop location in State government where
they can access available services and resources. In addition, the
office along with the advisory council will develop and recommend poli-
cies to the Governor and State Legislature. Most states have a state

agency or commission that is dedicated to providing services and devel-
oping policy for the deaf and hard of hearing community.

 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

2020 - S. 8025 Reported and Committed to Finance / No Assembly Same-as

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

To be determined.

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the one hundred eightieth day after it
shall have become a law.

2021-S1852 - Bill Text download pdf

                            
 
                     S T A T E   O F   N E W   Y O R K
 ________________________________________________________________________
 
                                   1852
 
                        2021-2022 Regular Sessions
 
                             I N  S E N A T E
 
                             January 16, 2021
                                ___________
 
 Introduced  by  Sens. SKOUFIS, PARKER -- read twice and ordered printed,
   and when printed to be committed to the Committee on Finance
 
 AN ACT to amend the executive  law,  in  relation  to  establishing  the
   office  of  the deaf and hard of hearing; and to repeal section 559 of
   the executive law relating to the New York state  interagency  coordi-
   nating  council  for  services to persons who are deaf, deaf-blind, or
   hard of hearing
 
   THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, REPRESENTED IN SENATE AND  ASSEM-
 BLY, DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS:
 
   Section  1.  The executive law is amended by adding a new article 26-c
 to read as follows:
                               ARTICLE 26-C
                  OFFICE OF THE DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING
 SECTION 755. DEFINITIONS.
         756. OFFICE OF THE DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING.
         757. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.
         758. POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE OFFICE.
         759. DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING ADVISORY COUNCIL.
   § 755. DEFINITIONS. WHEN USED IN THIS ARTICLE, THE FOLLOWING WORDS AND
 TERMS SHALL HAVE THE MEANINGS ASCRIBED TO THEM IN  THIS  SECTION:  "DEAF
 AND  HARD  OF  HEARING"  SHALL MEAN A PERSON WHO HAS PARTIAL OR COMPLETE
 LOSS OF HEARING INCLUDING INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE DEAF-BLIND.
   § 756. OFFICE OF THE DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING. THERE IS HEREBY  ESTAB-
 LISHED  WITHIN THE EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT THE "OFFICE OF THE DEAF AND HARD
 OF HEARING".
   § 757. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR. THE GOVERNOR  SHALL  APPOINT  AN  EXECUTIVE
 DIRECTOR  OF THE OFFICE WHO SHALL SERVE AT THE PLEASURE OF THE GOVERNOR.
 THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SHALL RECEIVE  AN  ANNUAL  SALARY  FIXED  BY  THE
 GOVERNOR WITHIN THE AMOUNTS APPROPRIATED SPECIFICALLY THEREFOR AND SHALL
 BE ENTITLED TO REIMBURSEMENT FOR ACTUAL EXPENSES NECESSARILY INCURRED IN
 THE DISCHARGE OF THEIR OFFICIAL DUTIES.
 
  EXPLANATION--Matter in ITALICS (underscored) is new; matter in brackets
                       [ ] is old law to be omitted.

                                                            LBD05522-01-1

 S. 1852                             2
 
   § 758. POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE OFFICE. 1. THE OFFICE SHALL ADVISE THE
 GOVERNOR  AND  THE LEGISLATURE ON HOW THE STATE CAN EFFECTIVELY MEET THE
 NEEDS OF THE DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING COMMUNITIES.
   2. THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE OFFICE ARE TO:
   (A)  CREATE  A  STATEWIDE  PLAN  TO  DELIVER  COORDINATED SERVICES AND
 PROGRAMS TO PERSONS WHO ARE DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING IN  A  MANNER  THAT
 BEST  SERVES  THEIR  NEEDS  INCLUDING  BUT  NOT  LIMITED TO EDUCATIONAL,
 MEDICAL, HOUSING, AND EMPLOYMENT SERVICES;
   (B) DEVELOP A PROCESS TO COLLECT AND MAINTAIN DATA ON  THE  NUMBER  OF
 DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING INDIVIDUALS IN NEW YORK STATE;
   (C)  REGULARLY  MAINTAIN  A  WEBSITE THAT SERVES AS A CLEARINGHOUSE OF
 INFORMATION, RESOURCES AND SERVICES FOR PERSONS WHO ARE DEAF AND HARD OF
 HEARING;
   (D) CREATE A REFERRAL  SYSTEM  THAT  RECEIVES  COMPLAINTS  IN  MATTERS
 AFFECTING  THE  DEAF  AND  HARD  OF  HEARING  COMMUNITY  AND REFERS SUCH
 COMPLAINTS TO THE APPROPRIATE AGENCIES OR ORGANIZATIONS IF NECESSARY  OR
 APPROPRIATE;
   (E)  COORDINATE  WITH  STATE  AND  LOCAL AGENCIES TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO
 PUBLIC SAFETY AND EMERGENCY SERVICES;
   (F) DEVELOP STRATEGIES TO INCREASE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES  FOR  DEAF
 AND HARD OF HEARING INDIVIDUALS;
   (G)  DEVELOP AND RECOMMEND POLICIES TO THE GOVERNOR AND LEGISLATURE AS
 DEEMED NECESSARY TO ASSIST THE DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING COMMUNITIES;
   (H) DEVELOP A MODEL POLICY ON INTERPRETER SERVICES  INCLUDING  METHODS
 TO  INCREASE  ACCESS  TO SUCH SERVICES AND LICENSING OF QUALIFIED INTER-
 PRETERS;
   (I) PROVIDE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE TO  LOCAL  GOVERNMENTS,  AGENCIES  OR
 OTHER   NON-GOVERNMENTAL  ENTITIES  ON  DEVELOPING  POLICIES,  PROVIDING
 SERVICES AND INCREASING ACCESSIBILITY FOR THE DEAF AND HARD  OF  HEARING
 COMMUNITIES;
   (J)  IMPROVE  AND  EXPAND ACCESS TO ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY INCLUDING BUT
 NOT LIMITED TO, RELAY  SERVICES,  CLOSED  CAPTIONING,  OPEN  CAPTIONING,
 HEARING   LOOPS,   TELECOMMUNICATION   DEVICES  OR  OTHER  COMMUNICATION
 SERVICES; AND
   (K) COORDINATE WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE REGARDING ACCESS TO  HEAR-
 ING AIDS AND OTHER ASSOCIATED RESOURCES.
   3. THE OFFICE SHALL SUBMIT AN ANNUAL REPORT TO THE GOVERNOR AND LEGIS-
 LATURE  DETAILING  THE OPERATION AND ACTIONS OF THE OFFICE INCLUDING BUT
 NOT LIMITED TO THE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE STATEWIDE PLAN,
 POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS, AND ACTIONS TAKEN IN CONJUNCTION WITH  STATE  OR
 LOCAL AGENCIES.
   § 759. DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING ADVISORY COUNCIL. 1. AN ADVISORY COUN-
 CIL  IS  HEREBY  ESTABLISHED TO MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS ON DEAF AND HARD OF
 HEARING RELATED ISSUES, ASSIST  IN  THE  DEVELOPMENT  OF  POLICIES,  AND
 FACILITATE  COORDINATION BETWEEN FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS ON
 ISSUES RELATED TO THE DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING COMMUNITY.
   2. THE ADVISORY COUNCIL SHALL BE COMPRISED OF ELEVEN  VOTING  MEMBERS.
 ALL MEMBERS MUST BE NEW YORK RESIDENTS.
   (A)  FOUR  MEMBERS  OF THE COUNCIL SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR,
 TWO OF WHOM SHALL BE DEAF OR HARD OF HEARING.
   (B) FOUR MEMBERS OF THE COUNCIL SHALL BE APPOINTED  IN  THE  FOLLOWING
 MANNER  AND  MUST  BE DEAF OR HARD OF HEARING: ONE MEMBER OF THE COUNCIL
 SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE, ONE  MEMBER
 OF  THE  COUNCIL  SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE SPEAKER OF THE ASSEMBLY, ONE
 MEMBER OF THE COUNCIL SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE MINORITY LEADER  OF  THE

 S. 1852                             3
 
 SENATE  AND ONE MEMBER OF THE COUNCIL SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE MINORITY
 LEADER OF THE ASSEMBLY.
   (C)  ONE  MEMBER OF THE COUNCIL SHALL BE THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE
 OFFICE OF THE DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING; ONE MEMBER OF THE COUNCIL  SHALL
 BE  THE  PRESIDENT OF THE EMPIRE ASSOCIATION OF THE DEAF OR THEIR DESIG-
 NEE; AND ONE MEMBER OF THE COUNCIL SHALL BE THE PRESIDENT OF THE HEARING
 LOSS ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK STATE OR THEIR DESIGNEE.
   3. THE MEMBERS OF THE ADVISORY COUNCIL  SHALL  SERVE  TERMS  OF  THREE
 YEARS. OF THE FOUR PERSONS APPOINTED PURSUANT TO PARAGRAPH (A) OF SUBDI-
 VISION  TWO OF THIS SECTION, TWO SHALL SERVE FOR A TERM OF TWO YEARS AND
 TWO SHALL SERVE FOR A TERM OF ONE YEAR, AS DETERMINED BY  THE  GOVERNOR.
 OF  THE  FOUR PERSONS APPOINTED PURSUANT TO PARAGRAPH (B) OF SUBDIVISION
 TWO OF THIS SECTION, THE APPOINTMENTS BY THE TEMPORARY PRESIDENT OF  THE
 SENATE  AND  THE  SPEAKER  OF THE ASSEMBLY SHALL SERVE FOR A TERM OF TWO
 YEARS, AND THE APPOINTMENTS BY THE MINORITY LEADER OF THE SENATE AND THE
 MINORITY LEADER OF THE ASSEMBLY SHALL SERVE FOR  A  TERM  OF  ONE  YEAR.
 SUBSEQUENT  APPOINTMENTS UPON THE EXPIRATION OF TERM SHALL BE FOR A TERM
 OF THREE YEARS AND SHALL BE FILLED IN THE SAME MANNER  AS  THE  ORIGINAL
 APPOINTMENT.
   4.  MEMBERS  OF THE ADVISORY COUNCIL SHALL SERVE WITHOUT COMPENSATION,
 BUT SHALL BE ALLOWED THEIR ACTUAL AND NECESSARY EXPENSES INCURRED IN THE
 PERFORMANCE OF THEIR DUTIES.
   5. THE ADVISORY COUNCIL SHALL MEET NO LESS THAN TWO  TIMES  PER  YEAR.
 THE  MEETINGS  SHALL  BE MADE ACCESSIBLE TO THE DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING
 COMMUNITY. A MAJORITY OF THE VOTING MEMBERSHIP OF THE  ADVISORY  COUNCIL
 SHALL  CONSTITUTE  A  QUORUM  FOR  THE  TRANSACTION OF COUNCIL BUSINESS.
 ACTION MAY BE TAKEN AND MOTIONS AND RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY THE  ADVISORY
 COUNCIL AT ANY MEETING THEREOF BY THE AFFIRMATIVE VOTE OF SIX MEMBERS OF
 THE ADVISORY COUNCIL.
   § 2. Section 559 of the executive law is REPEALED.
   § 3. This act shall take effect on the one hundred eightieth day after
 it shall have become a law.

co-Sponsors

2021-S1852A - Details

See Assembly Version of this Bill:: A6710
Law Section:: Executive Law
Laws Affected:: Add Art 26-C §§755 - 759, rpld §559, Exec L; amd §491, Soc Serv L
Versions Introduced in Other Legislative Sessions:: 2017-2018: A8813
2019-2020: S8025, A3472
2023-2024: S7251, S8207, A5683

2021-S1852A - Summary

2021-S1852A - Sponsor Memo

                                 
BILL NUMBER: S1852A

SPONSOR: SKOUFIS
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the executive law, in relation to establishing the
commission of the deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing; and to repeal
section 559 of the executive law relating to the New York state intera-
gency coordinating council for services to persons who are deaf, deaf-
blind, or hard of hearing

 
PURPOSE:

This bill would create the commission of the deaf, deafblind and hard of
hearing.

 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:

Section one of the bill amends the executive law by adding a new article
26-C as it relates to the creation of the commission of the deaf, deafb-
lind and hard of hearing. The commission and executive director would be
responsible for guiding policy and resources on how the state can meet

the needs of the deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing communities. The
commission would have several responsibilities including creating a
statewide plan for delivering services, maintaining a website, a refer-
ral system for complaints, expanding employment opportunities and devel-
oping policies for the governor and legislature. The commission shall
submit an annual report on their progress to the governor and legisla-
ture.  The commission would be comprised of nine members, with a majori-
ty of membership made up of individuals representing the deaf, deafblind
and hard of hearing communities.

Section two of the bill repeals section 559 of the executive law.

Section three of the bill relates to the effective date.

 
JUSTIFICATION:

There is currently no active location in State government dedicated to
serving the deaf or hard of hearing community. In 2007, an interagency
council was created to streamline services to deaf, deafblind or hard of
hearing New Yorkers. It was originally under the administration of the
NYS Commission on Quality of Care and Advocacy for Persons with Disabil-
ities (CQCAPD) and was subsequently moved to the newly created Justice
Center in 2012. Since the reorganization, the Interagency Coordinating
Council for Services to Persons Who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind, or Hard of
Hearing is defunct and has not met in years. This new Commission would
replace the council.

The Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing would provide
deaf deafblind, or hard of hearing New Yorkers with a one stop location
in State government where they can access available services and
resources. Most states have a state agency or commission that is dedi-
cated to providing services and developing policy for the deaf, deafb-
lind and hard of hearing community.

 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

Senate:
S1852A of 2021-2022

S8025 of 2019-2020

Assembly:

A.6710A of 2021-2022

A.3472 of 2019-20

A.8813 of 2017-18

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

To be determined.

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the one hundred eightieth day after it
shall have become a law.

2021-S1852A - Bill Text download pdf

                             
                     S T A T E   O F   N E W   Y O R K
 ________________________________________________________________________
 
                                  1852--A
 
                        2021-2022 Regular Sessions
 
                             I N  S E N A T E
 
                             January 16, 2021
                                ___________
 
 Introduced  by  Sens.  SKOUFIS,  MAYER, PARKER -- read twice and ordered
   printed, and when printed to be committed to the Committee on  Finance
   --  recommitted  to the Committee on Finance in accordance with Senate
   Rule  6,  sec.  8  --  committee  discharged,  bill  amended,  ordered
   reprinted as amended and recommitted to said committee

 AN  ACT  to  amend  the  executive  law, in relation to establishing the
   commission of the deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing; and  to  repeal
   section 559 of the executive law relating to the New York state inter-
   agency  coordinating  council  for  services  to persons who are deaf,
   deaf-blind, or hard of hearing
 
   THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, REPRESENTED IN SENATE AND  ASSEM-
 BLY, DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS:
 
   Section  1.  The executive law is amended by adding a new article 26-C
 to read as follows:
                               ARTICLE 26-C
           COMMISSION OF THE DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING
 SECTION 755. DEFINITIONS.
         756. COMMISSION OF THE DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING.
         757. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.
         758. MEMBERSHIP OF THE COMMISSION.
         759. POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION.
   § 755. DEFINITIONS. WHEN USED IN THIS ARTICLE, THE FOLLOWING WORDS AND
 TERMS SHALL HAVE THE MEANINGS ASCRIBED TO THEM IN THIS SECTION:
   1. "DEAF" SHALL MEAN A PERSON WHO HAS PROFOUND HEARING  LOSS  AND  WHO
 PRIMARILY  RELIES  ON VISUAL COMMUNICATION, SUCH AS SIGN LANGUAGE, WRIT-
 ING, LIP READING, AND GESTURES, WHICH MAY  BE  USED  EXCLUSIVELY  OR  IN
 COMBINATION, OR WHO COMMUNICATES ORALLY AND USE SIGN LANGUAGE TO SUPPORT
 THEIR UNDERSTANDING OF THE SPOKEN LANGUAGE;
   2.  "DEAFBLIND"  SHALL  MEAN A PERSON WITH VARYING DEGREES OF COMBINED
 HEARING AND VISION LOSS; AND
   3. "HARD OF HEARING" SHALL MEAN A PERSON WITH MEASURABLE HEARING LOSS.
 
  EXPLANATION--Matter in ITALICS (underscored) is new; matter in brackets
                       [ ] is old law to be omitted.
                                                            LBD05522-09-2

 S. 1852--A                          2
 
   § 756. COMMISSION OF THE DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING. THERE IS
 HEREBY ESTABLISHED THE "COMMISSION OF THE DEAF, DEAFBLIND  AND  HARD  OF
 HEARING".
   §  757.  EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR. THE GOVERNOR SHALL APPOINT, AT THE RECOM-
 MENDATION OF THE COMMISSION, AN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE COMMISSION WHO
 SHALL SERVE AT THE PLEASURE OF  THE  GOVERNOR.  THE  EXECUTIVE  DIRECTOR
 SHALL  RECEIVE AN ANNUAL SALARY FIXED BY THE GOVERNOR WITHIN THE AMOUNTS
 APPROPRIATED SPECIFICALLY THEREFOR AND SHALL BE ENTITLED  TO  REIMBURSE-
 MENT  FOR ACTUAL EXPENSES NECESSARILY INCURRED IN THE DISCHARGE OF THEIR
 OFFICIAL DUTIES.  THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SHALL ASSIST THE COMMISSION  IN
 CARRYING OUT THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMMISSION.
   §  758.  MEMBERSHIP  OF  THE  COMMISSION.  1.  THE COMMISSION SHALL BE
 COMPRISED OF NINE VOTING  MEMBERS  AND  THREE  NON-VOTING  MEMBERS.  ALL
 MEMBERS MUST BE NEW YORK RESIDENTS.
   (A)  FIVE MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION SHALL BE APPOINTED  BY  THE GOVER-
 NOR IN THE FOLLOWING MANNER:
   (I) THREE MEMBERS, ONE WHOM IS DEAF, ONE WHOM  IS  DEAFBLIND  AND  ONE
 WHOM IS HARD OF HEARING;
   (II) A LICENSED AUDIOLOGIST PURSUANT TO ARTICLE ONE HUNDRED FIFTY-NINE
 OF THE EDUCATION LAW; AND
   (III) A REPRESENTATIVE OF A STATE-SUPPORTED SCHOOL FOR THE INSTRUCTION
 OF STUDENTS WHO ARE DEAF, DEAFBLIND OR HARD OF HEARING.
   (B)  ONE MEMBER  OF THE COMMISSION SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE TEMPORARY
 PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE. SUCH MEMBER SHALL BE HARD OF HEARING.
   (C) ONE MEMBER OF THE COMMISSION SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE SPEAKER  OF
 THE ASSEMBLY. SUCH MEMBER SHALL BE DEAF.
   (D)  ONE  MEMBER  OF THE COMMISSION SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE MINORITY
 LEADER OF THE SENATE. SUCH MEMBER SHALL BE DEAFBLIND.
   (E) ONE MEMBER OF THE COMMISSION SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE    MINORITY
 LEADER  OF THE ASSEMBLY. SUCH MEMBER SHALL BE A PARENT OF A CHILD WHO IS
 DEAF, DEAFBLIND OR HARD OF HEARING.
   (F) THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE COMMISSION OF  THE  DEAF,  DEAFBLIND
 AND  HARD  OF  HEARING  SHALL  BE A NON-VOTING, EX-OFFICIO MEMBER OF THE
 COMMISSION.
   (G) THE MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION SHALL APPOINT TWO NON-VOTING MEMBERS
 OF THE COMMISSION, ONE WHOM SHALL BE A QUALIFIED  SIGN  LANGUAGE  INTER-
 PRETER AND ONE WHOM SHALL BE A QUALIFIED REAL-TIME CAPTIONING PROVIDER.
   2.  THE  IDENTIFICATION  AND  SELECTION OF CANDIDATES FOR APPOINTMENTS
 SHALL BE DONE, TO THE GREATEST EXTENT  POSSIBLE,  IN  CONSULTATION  WITH
 ORGANIZATIONS  AND INDIVIDUALS REPRESENTING THE DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD
 OF HEARING COMMUNITIES.
   3. THE MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION   SHALL   SERVE   TERMS   OF    THREE
 YEARS.   SUBSEQUENT APPOINTMENTS UPON THE EXPIRATION OF SUCH TERMS SHALL
 BE FILLED IN THE SAME MANNER AS THE ORIGINAL APPOINTMENTS.  THE  MEMBERS
 OF  THE  COMMISSION  SHALL ELECT ONE OF THEIR MEMBERS TO SERVE AS CHAIR-
 PERSON DURING HIS OR HER APPOINTMENT TERM  OR  FOR  A  PERIOD  OF  THREE
 YEARS, WHICHEVER IS SHORTER.
   4.  MEMBERS  OF  THE  COMMISSION SHALL SERVE WITHOUT COMPENSATION, BUT
 SHALL BE ALLOWED THEIR ACTUAL AND NECESSARY  EXPENSES  INCURRED  IN  THE
 PERFORMANCE OF THEIR DUTIES.
   5.  THE  COMMISSION  SHALL  MEET AT LEAST FOUR TIMES   PER  YEAR.  THE
 MEETINGS SHALL BE MADE ACCESSIBLE TO THE DEAF,  DEAFBLIND  AND  HARD  OF
 HEARING  COMMUNITIES. A MAJORITY OF THE VOTING MEMBERSHIP OF THE COMMIS-
 SION SHALL  CONSTITUTE  A  QUORUM  FOR  THE   TRANSACTION OF  COMMISSION
 BUSINESS.    ACTION  MAY BE TAKEN AND MOTIONS AND RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY
 S. 1852--A                          3
 
 THE COMMISSION AT ANY MEETING THEREOF BY THE AFFIRMATIVE  VOTE  OF  FIVE
 MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION.
   §  759.  POWERS  AND DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION. 1. THE COMMISSION SHALL
 ADVISE THE GOVERNOR AND THE LEGISLATURE ON HOW THE STATE CAN EFFECTIVELY
 MEET THE NEEDS OF THE DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING COMMUNITIES.
   2. THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMMISSION ARE TO:
   (A) CREATE A STATEWIDE PLAN,  INCLUDING  ANNUAL  UPDATES,  TO  DELIVER
 COORDINATED SERVICES AND PROGRAMS TO PERSONS WHO ARE DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND
 HARD  OF  HEARING IN A MANNER THAT BEST SERVES THEIR NEEDS INCLUDING BUT
 NOT LIMITED TO ACCESSIBILITY, EDUCATIONAL, MEDICAL, HOUSING, AND EMPLOY-
 MENT SERVICES;
   (B) DEVELOP A PROCESS TO COLLECT AND MAINTAIN DATA ON  THE  NUMBER  OF
 DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING INDIVIDUALS IN NEW YORK STATE;
   (C)  REGULARLY  MAINTAIN  A  WEBSITE THAT SERVES AS A CLEARINGHOUSE OF
 INFORMATION, RESOURCES AND SERVICES FOR PERSONS WHO ARE DEAF,  DEAFBLIND
 AND HARD OF HEARING;
   (D)  CREATE  A  REFERRAL  SYSTEM  THAT  RECEIVES COMPLAINTS IN MATTERS
 AFFECTING THE DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING COMMUNITIES AND REFERS
 SUCH COMPLAINTS TO THE APPROPRIATE AGENCIES OR ORGANIZATIONS  IF  NECES-
 SARY OR APPROPRIATE;
   (E)  COORDINATE  WITH  FEDERAL,  STATE  AND  LOCAL AGENCIES TO IMPROVE
 ACCESS TO PUBLIC SAFETY AND EMERGENCY SERVICES;
   (F) DEVELOP STRATEGIES TO INCREASE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR  DEAF,
 DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING INDIVIDUALS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
 JOB TRAINING AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT SERVICES;
   (G)  DEVELOP AND RECOMMEND POLICIES TO THE GOVERNOR AND LEGISLATURE AS
 DEEMED NECESSARY TO ASSIST THE  DEAF,  DEAFBLIND  AND  HARD  OF  HEARING
 COMMUNITIES;
   (H)  DEVELOP  A  MODEL  POLICY  ON INTERPRETER AND CAPTIONING SERVICES
 INCLUDING METHODS TO INCREASE ACCESS TO SUCH SERVICES AND  LICENSING  OF
 QUALIFIED INTERPRETERS AND CAPTIONERS;
   (I)  PROVIDE  TECHNICAL  ASSISTANCE TO STATE AGENCIES AND DEPARTMENTS,
 LOCAL GOVERNMENTS, AGENCIES OR OTHER NON-GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES ON DEVEL-
 OPING POLICIES, PROVIDING SERVICES AND INCREASING ACCESSIBILITY FOR  THE
 DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING COMMUNITIES;
   (J)  IMPROVE  AND  EXPAND ACCESS TO ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY INCLUDING BUT
 NOT LIMITED TO, RELAY  SERVICES,  CLOSED  CAPTIONING,  OPEN  CAPTIONING,
 HEARING LOOPS, TELECOMMUNICATION DEVICES, TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES, ALTER-
 NATIVE TEXT OR OTHER COMMUNICATION SERVICES;
   (K)  COORDINATE WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE REGARDING ACCESS TO HEAR-
 ING AIDS AND OTHER ASSOCIATED RESOURCES; AND
   (L) DEVELOP PUBLIC AWARENESS MATERIALS AND RESOURCES ON HEARING  PRES-
 ERVATION AND HEARING LOSS PREVENTION.
   3.  SUBJECT TO AN APPROPRIATION BY THE LEGISLATURE, THE COMMISSION MAY
 HIRE PERSONNEL OR ENTER INTO CONTRACTS DEEMED NECESSARY TO CARRY OUT THE
 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMMISSION.
   4. THE COMMISSION SHALL SUBMIT AN ANNUAL REPORT TO  THE  GOVERNOR  AND
 LEGISLATURE  DETAILING  THE  OPERATION  AND  ACTIONS  OF  THE COMMISSION
 INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION  OF  THE
 STATEWIDE PLAN, POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS, AND ACTIONS TAKEN IN CONJUNCTION
 WITH STATE OR LOCAL AGENCIES.
   § 2. Section 559 of the executive law is REPEALED.
   § 3. This act shall take effect on the one hundred eightieth day after
 it shall have become a law.

co-Sponsors

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2021-S1852B (ACTIVE) - Details

See Assembly Version of this Bill:: A6710
Law Section:: Executive Law
Laws Affected:: Add Art 26-C §§755 - 759, rpld §559, Exec L; amd §491, Soc Serv L
Versions Introduced in Other Legislative Sessions:: 2017-2018: A8813
2019-2020: S8025, A3472
2023-2024: S7251, S8207, A5683

2021-S1852B (ACTIVE) - Summary

2021-S1852B (ACTIVE) - Sponsor Memo

                                 
BILL NUMBER: S1852B

SPONSOR: SKOUFIS
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the executive law, in relation to establishing the
commission of the deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing; to amend the
social services law, in relation to requiring the commission of the
deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing to transmit complaints in matters
affecting the deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing communities to the
vulnerable persons' central register; and to repeal section 559 of the
executive law relating to the New York state interagency coordinating
council for services to persons who are deaf, deaf-blind, or hard of
hearing

 
PURPOSE:

This bill would create the commission of the deaf, deafblind and hard of
hearing.

 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:

Section one of the bill amends the executive law by adding a new article
26-C as it relates to the creation of the commission of the deaf, deafb-
lind and hard of hearing. The commission and executive director would be
responsible for guiding policy and resources on how the state can meet
the needs of the deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing communities. The
commission would have several responsibilities including creating a
statewide plan for delivering services, maintaining a website, a refer-
ral system for complaints, expanding employment opportunities and devel-
oping policies for the governor and legislature. The commission shall
submit an annual report on their progress to the governor and legisla-
ture.  The commission would be comprised of nine members, with a majori-
ty of membership made up of individuals representing the deaf, deafblind
and hard of hearing communities.

Section two of the bill repeals section 559 of the executive law.

Section three of the bill relates to the effective date.

 
JUSTIFICATION:

There is currently no active location in State government dedicated to
serving the deaf or hard of hearing community. In 2007, an interagency
council was created to streamline services to deaf, deafblind or hard of
hearing New Yorkers. It was originally under the administration of the
NYS Commission on Quality of Care and Advocacy for Persons with Disabil-
ities (CQCAPD) and was subsequently moved to the newly created Justice
Center in 2012. Since the reorganization, the Interagency Coordinating
Council for Services to Persons Who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind, or Hard of
Hearing is defunct and has not met in years. This new Commission would
replace the council.

The Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing would provide
deaf deafblind, or hard of hearing. New Yorkers with a one stop location
in State government where they can access available services and
resources.


Most states have a state agency or commission that is dedicated to
providing services and developing policy for the deaf, deafblind and
hard of hearing community.

 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

Senate:

S1852B of 2021-2022 S8025 of 2019-2020

Assembly:

A6710B of 2021-2022 A3472 of 2019-20 A8813 of 2017-18

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

To be determined.

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the one hundred eightieth day after it
shall have become a law.

2021-S1852B (ACTIVE) - Bill Text download pdf

                             
                     S T A T E   O F   N E W   Y O R K
 ________________________________________________________________________
 
                                  1852--B
 
                        2021-2022 Regular Sessions
 
                             I N  S E N A T E
 
                             January 16, 2021
                                ___________
 
 Introduced  by  Sens.  SKOUFIS,  MAYER, PARKER -- read twice and ordered
   printed, and when printed to be committed to the Committee on  Finance
   --  recommitted  to the Committee on Finance in accordance with Senate
   Rule  6,  sec.  8  --  committee  discharged,  bill  amended,  ordered
   reprinted  as  amended  and recommitted to said committee -- committee
   discharged, bill amended, ordered reprinted as amended and recommitted
   to said committee
 
 AN ACT to amend the executive  law,  in  relation  to  establishing  the
   commission  of  the  deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing; to amend the
   social services law, in relation to requiring the  commission  of  the
   deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing to transmit complaints in matters
   affecting  the deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing communities to the
   vulnerable persons' central register; and to repeal section 559 of the
   executive law relating to the New York state interagency  coordinating
   council  for  services to persons who are deaf, deaf-blind, or hard of
   hearing
 
   THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, REPRESENTED IN SENATE AND  ASSEM-
 BLY, DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS:

   Section  1.  The executive law is amended by adding a new article 26-C
 to read as follows:
                               ARTICLE 26-C
           COMMISSION OF THE DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING
 SECTION 755. DEFINITIONS.
         756. COMMISSION OF THE DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING.
         757. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.
         758. MEMBERSHIP OF THE COMMISSION.
         759. POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION.
   § 755. DEFINITIONS. WHEN USED IN THIS ARTICLE, THE FOLLOWING WORDS AND
 TERMS SHALL HAVE THE MEANINGS ASCRIBED TO THEM IN THIS SECTION:
   1. "DEAF" SHALL MEAN A PERSON WHO HAS PROFOUND HEARING  LOSS  AND  WHO
 PRIMARILY  RELIES  ON VISUAL COMMUNICATION, SUCH AS SIGN LANGUAGE, WRIT-

  EXPLANATION--Matter in ITALICS (underscored) is new; matter in brackets
                       [ ] is old law to be omitted.
                                                            LBD05522-11-2

 S. 1852--B                          2
 
 ING, LIP READING, AND GESTURES, WHICH MAY  BE  USED  EXCLUSIVELY  OR  IN
 COMBINATION, OR WHO COMMUNICATES ORALLY AND USE SIGN LANGUAGE TO SUPPORT
 THEIR UNDERSTANDING OF THE SPOKEN LANGUAGE;
   2.  "DEAFBLIND"  SHALL  MEAN A PERSON WITH VARYING DEGREES OF COMBINED
 HEARING AND VISION LOSS; AND
   3. "HARD OF HEARING" SHALL MEAN A PERSON WITH MEASURABLE HEARING LOSS.
   § 756. COMMISSION OF THE DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING. THERE IS
 HEREBY ESTABLISHED THE "COMMISSION OF THE DEAF, DEAFBLIND  AND  HARD  OF
 HEARING".
   §  757.  EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR. THE GOVERNOR SHALL APPOINT, AT THE RECOM-
 MENDATION OF THE COMMISSION, AN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE COMMISSION WHO
 SHALL SERVE AT THE PLEASURE OF  THE  GOVERNOR.  THE  EXECUTIVE  DIRECTOR
 SHALL  RECEIVE AN ANNUAL SALARY FIXED BY THE GOVERNOR WITHIN THE AMOUNTS
 APPROPRIATED SPECIFICALLY THEREFOR AND SHALL BE ENTITLED  TO  REIMBURSE-
 MENT  FOR ACTUAL EXPENSES NECESSARILY INCURRED IN THE DISCHARGE OF THEIR
 OFFICIAL DUTIES.  THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SHALL ASSIST THE COMMISSION  IN
 CARRYING OUT THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMMISSION.
   §  758.  MEMBERSHIP  OF  THE  COMMISSION.  1.  THE COMMISSION SHALL BE
 COMPRISED OF NINE VOTING  MEMBERS  AND  THREE  NON-VOTING  MEMBERS.  ALL
 MEMBERS MUST BE NEW YORK RESIDENTS.
   (A)  FIVE MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION SHALL BE APPOINTED  BY  THE GOVER-
 NOR IN THE FOLLOWING MANNER:
   (I) THREE MEMBERS, ONE WHOM IS DEAF, ONE WHOM  IS  DEAFBLIND  AND  ONE
 WHOM IS HARD OF HEARING;
   (II) A LICENSED AUDIOLOGIST PURSUANT TO ARTICLE ONE HUNDRED FIFTY-NINE
 OF THE EDUCATION LAW; AND
   (III) A REPRESENTATIVE OF A STATE-SUPPORTED SCHOOL FOR THE INSTRUCTION
 OF STUDENTS WHO ARE DEAF, DEAFBLIND OR HARD OF HEARING.
   (B)  ONE MEMBER  OF THE COMMISSION SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE TEMPORARY
 PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE. SUCH MEMBER SHALL BE HARD OF HEARING.
   (C) ONE MEMBER OF THE COMMISSION SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE SPEAKER  OF
 THE ASSEMBLY. SUCH MEMBER SHALL BE DEAF.
   (D)  ONE  MEMBER  OF THE COMMISSION SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE MINORITY
 LEADER OF THE SENATE. SUCH MEMBER SHALL BE DEAFBLIND.
   (E) ONE MEMBER OF THE COMMISSION SHALL BE APPOINTED BY THE    MINORITY
 LEADER  OF THE ASSEMBLY. SUCH MEMBER SHALL BE A PARENT OF A CHILD WHO IS
 DEAF, DEAFBLIND OR HARD OF HEARING.
   (F) THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE COMMISSION OF  THE  DEAF,  DEAFBLIND
 AND  HARD  OF  HEARING  SHALL  BE A NON-VOTING, EX-OFFICIO MEMBER OF THE
 COMMISSION.
   (G) THE MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION SHALL APPOINT TWO NON-VOTING MEMBERS
 OF THE COMMISSION, ONE WHOM SHALL BE A QUALIFIED  SIGN  LANGUAGE  INTER-
 PRETER AND ONE WHOM SHALL BE A QUALIFIED REAL-TIME CAPTIONING PROVIDER.
   2.  THE  IDENTIFICATION  AND  SELECTION OF CANDIDATES FOR APPOINTMENTS
 SHALL BE DONE, TO THE GREATEST EXTENT  POSSIBLE,  IN  CONSULTATION  WITH
 ORGANIZATIONS  AND INDIVIDUALS REPRESENTING THE DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD
 OF HEARING COMMUNITIES.
   3. THE MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION   SHALL   SERVE   TERMS   OF    THREE
 YEARS.   SUBSEQUENT APPOINTMENTS UPON THE EXPIRATION OF SUCH TERMS SHALL
 BE FILLED IN THE SAME MANNER AS THE ORIGINAL APPOINTMENTS.  THE  MEMBERS
 OF  THE  COMMISSION  SHALL ELECT ONE OF THEIR MEMBERS TO SERVE AS CHAIR-
 PERSON DURING HIS OR HER APPOINTMENT TERM  OR  FOR  A  PERIOD  OF  THREE
 YEARS, WHICHEVER IS SHORTER.
   4.  MEMBERS  OF  THE  COMMISSION SHALL SERVE WITHOUT COMPENSATION, BUT
 SHALL BE ALLOWED THEIR ACTUAL AND NECESSARY  EXPENSES  INCURRED  IN  THE
 PERFORMANCE OF THEIR DUTIES.
 S. 1852--B                          3
 
   5.  THE  COMMISSION  SHALL  MEET AT LEAST FOUR TIMES   PER  YEAR.  THE
 MEETINGS SHALL BE MADE ACCESSIBLE TO THE DEAF,  DEAFBLIND  AND  HARD  OF
 HEARING  COMMUNITIES. A MAJORITY OF THE VOTING MEMBERSHIP OF THE COMMIS-
 SION SHALL  CONSTITUTE  A  QUORUM  FOR  THE   TRANSACTION OF  COMMISSION
 BUSINESS.    ACTION  MAY BE TAKEN AND MOTIONS AND RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY
 THE COMMISSION AT ANY MEETING THEREOF BY THE AFFIRMATIVE  VOTE  OF  FIVE
 MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION.
   §  759.  POWERS  AND DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION. 1. THE COMMISSION SHALL
 ADVISE THE GOVERNOR AND THE LEGISLATURE ON HOW THE STATE CAN EFFECTIVELY
 MEET THE NEEDS OF THE DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING COMMUNITIES.
   2. THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMMISSION ARE TO:
   (A) CREATE A STATEWIDE PLAN,  INCLUDING  ANNUAL  UPDATES,  TO  DELIVER
 COORDINATED SERVICES AND PROGRAMS TO PERSONS WHO ARE DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND
 HARD  OF  HEARING IN A MANNER THAT BEST SERVES THEIR NEEDS INCLUDING BUT
 NOT LIMITED TO ACCESSIBILITY, EDUCATIONAL, MEDICAL, HOUSING, AND EMPLOY-
 MENT SERVICES.  THE COMMISSION SHALL COORDINATE WITH OTHER  STATE  AGEN-
 CIES,  AND  THE  COMMISSION FOR THE BLIND, AS APPROPRIATE, WHEN CREATING
 THEIR STATE PLAN TO DELIVER COORDINATED SERVICES AND PROGRAMS;
   (B) DEVELOP A PROCESS TO COLLECT AND MAINTAIN DATA ON  THE  NUMBER  OF
 DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING INDIVIDUALS IN NEW YORK STATE;
   (C)  REGULARLY  MAINTAIN  A  WEBSITE THAT SERVES AS A CLEARINGHOUSE OF
 INFORMATION, RESOURCES AND SERVICES FOR PERSONS WHO ARE DEAF,  DEAFBLIND
 AND HARD OF HEARING;
   (D)  CREATE  A  REFERRAL  SYSTEM  THAT  RECEIVES COMPLAINTS IN MATTERS
 AFFECTING THE DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING COMMUNITIES AND REFERS
 SUCH COMPLAINTS TO THE APPROPRIATE AGENCIES OR ORGANIZATIONS  IF  NECES-
 SARY OR APPROPRIATE, PROVIDED HOWEVER, IF SUCH COMPLAINT IS A REPORTABLE
 INCIDENT PURSUANT TO ARTICLE ELEVEN OF THE SOCIAL SERVICES LAW, IT SHALL
 BE  FORWARDED  TO  THE  VULNERABLE  PERSONS' CENTRAL REGISTER OR IF SUCH
 COMPLAINT IS A CRIMINAL MATTER, IT SHALL BE FORWARDED TO THE APPROPRIATE
 LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY;
   (E) COORDINATE WITH FEDERAL,  STATE  AND  LOCAL  AGENCIES  TO  IMPROVE
 ACCESS TO PUBLIC SAFETY AND EMERGENCY SERVICES;
   (F)  DEVELOP STRATEGIES TO INCREASE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR DEAF,
 DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING INDIVIDUALS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
 JOB TRAINING AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT SERVICES;
   (G) DEVELOP AND RECOMMEND POLICIES TO THE GOVERNOR AND LEGISLATURE  AS
 DEEMED  NECESSARY  TO  ASSIST  THE  DEAF,  DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING
 COMMUNITIES;
   (H) DEVELOP A MODEL POLICY  ON  INTERPRETER  AND  CAPTIONING  SERVICES
 INCLUDING  METHODS  TO INCREASE ACCESS TO SUCH SERVICES AND LICENSING OF
 QUALIFIED INTERPRETERS AND CAPTIONERS;
   (I) PROVIDE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE TO STATE  AGENCIES  AND  DEPARTMENTS,
 LOCAL GOVERNMENTS, AGENCIES OR OTHER NON-GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES ON DEVEL-
 OPING  POLICIES, PROVIDING SERVICES AND INCREASING ACCESSIBILITY FOR THE
 DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING COMMUNITIES;
   (J) IMPROVE AND EXPAND ACCESS TO ASSISTIVE  TECHNOLOGY  INCLUDING  BUT
 NOT  LIMITED  TO,  RELAY  SERVICES,  CLOSED CAPTIONING, OPEN CAPTIONING,
 HEARING LOOPS, TELECOMMUNICATION DEVICES, TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES, ALTER-
 NATIVE TEXT OR OTHER COMMUNICATION SERVICES;
   (K) COORDINATE WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE REGARDING ACCESS TO  HEAR-
 ING AIDS AND OTHER ASSOCIATED RESOURCES; AND
   (L)  DEVELOP PUBLIC AWARENESS MATERIALS AND RESOURCES ON HEARING PRES-
 ERVATION AND HEARING LOSS PREVENTION.
 S. 1852--B                          4
 
   3. SUBJECT TO AN APPROPRIATION BY THE LEGISLATURE, THE COMMISSION  MAY
 HIRE PERSONNEL OR ENTER INTO CONTRACTS DEEMED NECESSARY TO CARRY OUT THE
 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMMISSION.
   4.  THE  COMMISSION  SHALL SUBMIT AN ANNUAL REPORT TO THE GOVERNOR AND
 LEGISLATURE DETAILING  THE  OPERATION  AND  ACTIONS  OF  THE  COMMISSION
 INCLUDING  BUT  NOT LIMITED TO THE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE
 STATEWIDE PLAN, POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS, AND ACTIONS TAKEN IN CONJUNCTION
 WITH STATE OR LOCAL AGENCIES.  THE INITIAL REPORT SHALL BE SUBMITTED  ON
 SEPTEMBER  FIRST,  TWO  THOUSAND  TWENTY-THREE,  WITH SUBSEQUENT REPORTS
 ANNUALLY THEREAFTER.
   § 2. Section 559 of the executive law is REPEALED.
   § 3. Section 491 of the social services law is amended by adding a new
 subdivision 6 to read as follows:
   6. THE COMMISSION OF THE DEAF, DEAFBLIND AND HARD  OF  HEARING  ESTAB-
 LISHED  PURSUANT  TO  ARTICLE TWENTY-SIX-C OF THE EXECUTIVE LAW SHALL BE
 RESPONSIBLE FOR TRANSMITTING COMPLAINTS IN MATTERS AFFECTING  THE  DEAF,
 DEAFBLIND  AND  HARD  OF  HEARING COMMUNITIES TO THE VULNERABLE PERSONS'
 CENTRAL REGISTER, AS APPROPRIATE, WHERE SUCH COMPLAINTS INVOLVE  ALLEGA-
 TIONS OF REPORTABLE INCIDENTS PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION.
   § 4. This act shall take effect on the one hundred eightieth day after
 it shall have become a law.

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Senate Bill S1852B

Sponsored By

Archive: Last Bill Status Via A6710 - Passed Senate

Jun 1, 2022 - Floor Vote

Floor Vote: Jun 1, 2022

Jun 1, 2022 - Rules Committee Vote

Rules Committee Vote: Jun 1, 2022

Bill Amendments

co-Sponsors

2021-S1852 - Details

2021-S1852 - Summary

2021-S1852 - Sponsor Memo

2021-S1852 - Bill Text download pdf

co-Sponsors

2021-S1852A - Details

2021-S1852A - Summary

2021-S1852A - Sponsor Memo

2021-S1852A - Bill Text download pdf

co-Sponsors

2021-S1852B (ACTIVE) - Details

2021-S1852B (ACTIVE) - Summary

2021-S1852B (ACTIVE) - Sponsor Memo

2021-S1852B (ACTIVE) - Bill Text download pdf

Comments

Senate Bill S1852B

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Sponsored By

Archive: Last Bill Status Via A6710 - Passed Senate

Bill Amendments

co-Sponsors

2021-S1852 - Details

2021-S1852 - Summary

2021-S1852 - Sponsor Memo

2021-S1852 - Bill Text download pdf

co-Sponsors

2021-S1852A - Details

2021-S1852A - Summary

2021-S1852A - Sponsor Memo

2021-S1852A - Bill Text download pdf

co-Sponsors

2021-S1852B (ACTIVE) - Details

2021-S1852B (ACTIVE) - Summary

2021-S1852B (ACTIVE) - Sponsor Memo

2021-S1852B (ACTIVE) - Bill Text download pdf

Comments