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A 7508

Provides for establishing a demonstration program implementing a dual track child protective program in Westchester county

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Gary Pretlow

Summary of New York Bill A 7508 Purpose and IntentThis bill would establish a demonstration program in Westchester County that implements a "dual track" approach to child protectiv

REFERRED TO CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
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Bill Summary · A 7508

Summary of New York Bill A 7508

Purpose and Intent

This bill would establish a demonstration program in Westchester County that implements a "dual track" approach to child protective services. The dual track model aims to provide more tailored and effective responses to reports of child abuse or neglect, differentiating between higher-risk and lower-risk cases.

Key Provisions

  • Requires the New York State Office of Children and Family Services to create and oversee a 5-year demonstration program in Westchester County.
  • Implements a "differential response" model, where cases are divided into a "child protective track" for higher-risk situations and a "family assessment track" for lower-risk situations.
  • Mandates the development of specific protocols, procedures, and criteria for assigning cases to each track.
  • Requires regular data collection and reporting on the program's implementation and outcomes.
  • Authorizes the provision of preventive services and community-based resources for families in the "family assessment track."

Affected Parties

  • The Westchester County child welfare system, including child protective services (CPS) caseworkers and supervisors.
  • Children and families involved with the child welfare system in Westchester County.
  • Community service providers that may partner with the demonstration program.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • The bill requires the demonstration program to be established within 1 year of the law taking effect.
  • The program must operate for 5 years, after which the Office of Children and Family Services will evaluate its effectiveness and determine whether to expand the model statewide.
  • Annual reports on the program's implementation and outcomes must be submitted to the Governor and legislature.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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