A Could 12, 2023 memo circulated by the Hochul administration throughout the New York State Division of Welfare discreetly up to date the eligibility standards for Security Web Help (SNA) and expanded eligibility to incorporate “noncitizens who’re thought-about everlasting residents below the colour of legislation ( PRUCOL ).”
“PRUCOL isn’t an immigration standing, however a public utility class utilized by OTDA for functions of Security Web Eligibility (SNA),” the report clarifies, outlining the various kinds of immigration documentation that SNA suppliers ought to acknowledge from migrants.
Designed to supply money help to eligible people and households dealing with monetary hardship, SNA covers a wide range of beneficiaries, together with single adults, childless {couples}, youngsters not residing with grownup family members, and households affected by substance abuse.
“Usually, a money SNA is obtainable for a most of two years in a lifetime,” the OTDA defined. “Moreover, the place eligible, SNA is offered in non-cash kinds corresponding to direct funds to landlords or vouchers to power firms.”
Whereas estimates counsel that round ten p.c of migrants in New York could also be eligible for or already obtain further SNA advantages, the OTDA has not disclosed the precise variety of migrants affected by the coverage change, in line with the New York Submit.
As of spring 2022, over 173,000 migrants have arrived in New York Metropolis alone, elevating the likelihood that greater than 17,000 people may very well be receiving SNA advantages within the metropolis alone.
Anthony Farmer, a spokesman for OTDA, emphasised that SNA funds to migrants symbolize solely a “small portion” of the $4.3 billion Hochul has allotted to deal with the migration disaster, “within the absence of latest federal help.”
“On the request of the Metropolis of New York, OTDA has made a technical replace that can enable a small share of migrants to obtain some further help in accordance with state and federal legislation,” Farmer stated.
Nonetheless, the welfare enlargement has confronted criticism from each Republicans and Democrats.
Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) condemned Gov. Hochul's transfer, calling it an try to draw migrants whereas burdening New Yorkers who contribute tax income.
Metropolis Councilman Robert Holden (D) echoed comparable sentiments and referred to as for an finish to what he perceives as over-handing.
Responding to the backlash, Hochul spokesman Avi Small blamed the immigration disaster on Republicans and stated a bipartisan deal had did not be reached to permit President Biden to deal with border points.
The revelation of the coverage change follows criticism leveled at NYC Mayor Eric Adams earlier this month for his proposal to distribute $53 million to migrants via pay as you go bank cards.
