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S 4907

Requires the office for people with developmental disabilities to create a staffing plan for workforce emergencies when experiencing staffing shortages

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Pat Fahy and 4 co-sponsors

Summary of S 4907: Staffing Plan for OPWDD Workforce Emergencies Main Purpose and IntentThis bill requires the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPW

REFERRED TO PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
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Bill Summary · S 4907

Summary of S 4907: Staffing Plan for OPWDD Workforce Emergencies

Main Purpose and Intent

This bill requires the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) to develop a comprehensive staffing plan to address workforce emergencies and shortages. The goal is to ensure OPWDD-certified programs and facilities have sufficient direct care staff to continue providing critical services to individuals with developmental disabilities during periods of severe staffing challenges.

Key Provisions

  • OPWDD must create a detailed staffing plan to be implemented during workforce emergencies, such as pandemics, natural disasters, or other events leading to severe staffing shortages.
  • The plan must identify strategies to recruit, train, and deploy additional staff to OPWDD-certified programs and facilities experiencing shortages.
  • Strategies may include mobilizing state employees, leveraging volunteers, implementing accelerated training programs, and coordinating with other state/local agencies.
  • OPWDD must review and update the staffing plan at least annually to ensure it remains current and effective.
  • The commissioner of OPWDD must submit the staffing plan to the governor and legislature within 180 days of the bill's effective date.

Affected Parties

  • Individuals with developmental disabilities who rely on services provided by OPWDD-certified programs and facilities
  • Direct care staff employed by OPWDD-certified programs and facilities
  • OPWDD leadership and administration responsible for developing and implementing the staffing plan

Timeline and Procedure

  • The bill was introduced in the New York State Senate on November 24, 2025 and referred to the Committee on People with Disabilities.
  • If passed, OPWDD would have 180 days to develop and submit the required staffing plan to the governor and legislature.
  • The staffing plan would then need to be reviewed and updated annually by OPWDD to maintain its effectiveness.

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

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