As 2025 draws to a close, Schuyler Center applauds Governor Hochul for signing into law several bills we have championed that will bring opportunity to New York’s children and families. 

Child Care

(S.1926 Persaud / A.7145 Walker) – Requires counties to maintain waitlists for child care assistance. This bill would require all counties to maintain waitlists, and collect basic information to inform future state efforts to ensure there are adequate resources reaching all communities to meet child care assistance needs. 

Oral Health

(S.3157 May / A.2341 Paulin) – Expands the settings where a dental hygienist can practice . This new law improves access to essential dental care by allowing dental hygienists to provide dental care in settings accessible to New Yorkers who often face barriers to oral health services such as federally qualified health centers, long-term care facilities, schools, domestic violence shelters, and other locations. 

Child Welfare

(S.550-A Brisport / A.66-A Hevesi) Anti-Harassment in Reporting Act – Anonymous calls to the State Central Register are sometimes made maliciously—by domestic abusers or others trying to punish a parent—and are more likely to ultimately be unsubstantiated, meaning there is insufficient evidence of abuse or neglect.  This change will protect children from intrusive, harmful, and unnecessary investigations. 

 (S.3781 Brisport / A.5434 Hevesi) – Requires the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) to provide luggage to young people entering, living in, moving between, and exiting state custody, placement, or guardianship.

Earlier this year, we also celebrated the inclusion of the first ever expansion of the New York State’s child tax credit in the 2025-2026 NYS State Budget. This historic expansion is among the most effective and equitable ways for the State to fulfill its commitment to reduce child poverty and support economic security for all families. Also included in the State Budget was universal free school meals for all children in schools across New York State that participate in the National School Lunch Program.  

Thank you for all of your support in 2025! This work is possible thanks to our partners and supporters who join us in our advocacy efforts. We look forward to working alongside you in the new year as we continue to create a New York State where all children and families are able to thrive.