Senate Bill S179

                                 
BILL NUMBER: S179

SPONSOR: PERSAUD
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the social services law, in relation to allowances for
the costs of diapers

 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:

This bill creates an allowance for eligible parents to receive a quar-
terly allowance to assist in the purchasing of diapers for their chil-
dren two years and under.

 
SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:

Section 1 would amend section 350 of the social services law by adding a
new paragraph (c): In accordance with the regulations of the department
approved by the director of the budget, allowances granted under the
provisions of this title may include the costs of diapers for an eligi-
ble child, two years of age or younger. Said allowances shall not exceed
eighty dollars every three months, per eligible child.
              

Section 2 sets forth the effective date.

 
JUSTIFICATION:

Children under the age of two require frequent diaper changes, which can
become financially challenging for low-income parents. Frequent diaper
changes are also necessary to prevent diaper rash, which if left
untreated, could lead to other health issues for the baby.  Helping
parents gain an adequate supply of diapers will assist in avoiding
further health issues for their children. The bill would provide eligi-
ble parents with an allowance to purchase diapers. Every three months,
parents of children aged two years and younger will be eligible to
receive up to eighty dollars, which will assist those who have trouble
affording diapers.

 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

2022: S. 63 passed Senate only

2021: S. 63 passed Senate only

2020: S1086-B reported to Senate Finance

2019: S.1086-B passed Senate only

2017 - 2018: S.13181/A.5793 - referred to Senate Children and Families

2016 - 2017: Referred to Senate Children and Families

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS TO STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT:

To be determined.

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
On the first of April next succeeding the date on which it shall have
become law.