Streamlining enrollment of eligible individuals in fair fares.

This bill would require the Commissioner of Social Services (Commissioner) to create a streamlined process for individuals to enroll in fair fares. The system would provide an option for eligible individuals to consent to the use of information provided in such individual’s application for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or cash assistance for the purpose of enrollment in fair fares. The bill would also require the Commissioner to notify eligible individuals about this streamlined process. Additionally, the bill would require the Commissioner to make best efforts to establish an agreement with the New York State Office of Temporary Disability Assistance and other relevant state agencies to obtain information necessary to notify additional individuals who may be eligible for fair fares, and to report to the Council about such efforts. The bill would also require the Commissioner to report to the Council annually about enrollment and usage of the fair fares program. Finally, the bill would require the Commissioner to study the feasibility of establishing automatic enrollment in all city-administered benefits programs.