New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A06189

Introduced
2/26/25  
Refer
2/26/25  

Caption

Relates to allowing unaccompanied children in custody petition the family court for orders of dependency to ensure such child receives proper care.

Impact

If enacted, the bill would empower unaccompanied children to advocate for their rights and access assistance through formal legal channels. Currently, the vulnerable group of unaccompanied minors often lacks sufficient mechanisms to ensure their welfare during periods of federal custody. By amending the family court act, A06189 aims to specifically address the welfare of these children, providing a legal framework for dependency petitions that may assist in safeguarding their interests and ensuring that they receive adequate support and protection under state law.

Summary

Bill A06189 seeks to amend existing family court and social services laws in New York by allowing unaccompanied children who are in federal placements to petition the family court for orders of dependency. This initiative is aimed at ensuring that these children can obtain the proper care and legal support that they are entitled to while they are in state care under federal contracts. The bill recognizes the unique vulnerabilities that unaccompanied minors face and aims to streamline their access to necessary legal proceedings that establish their status and needs.

Contention

The introduction of bill A06189 has sparked discussions around the implications of self-petitioning for dependency orders by unaccompanied minors. Advocates argue that this right is essential for protecting these children's rights and welfare, as it opens pathways for them to seek assistance tailored to their unique situations. However, there may also be concerns from some legislators about potential administrative burdens on the family court system and how services will be organized and delivered to these minors. Balancing the need for supportive measures for vulnerable populations with operational feasibility remains a point of debate.

Companion Bills

NY S04260

Same As Relates to allowing unaccompanied children in custody petition the family court for orders of dependency to ensure such child receives proper care.

Previously Filed As

NY S04260

Relates to allowing unaccompanied children in custody petition the family court for orders of dependency to ensure such child receives proper care.

NY A01656

Prohibits naming dependent children under the age of 18 living in the same household with a parent or guardian in petitions to recover possession of real property and eviction warrants; seals any records pertaining to dependent children under the age of 18 living in the same household with a parent or guardian who were residing on or removed from such property.

NY S08035

Authorizes courts, upon issuance of an order of protection, to order exclusive care, custody, and control of certain companion animals be granted to the petitioner

NY A08296

Relates to recurring payments to the non-custodial parent in special circumstances in child support proceedings involving joint or shared custody of children.

NY A04362

Relates to the duty owed by cities and counties to children in the legal custody of such cities and counties with respect to the placement of children; provides a statutory private right of action for compensatory damage.

NY A10857

Authorizes courts, upon issuance of an order of protection, to order exclusive care, custody, and control of certain companion animals be granted to the petitioner

NY A02726

Includes both the birth family and the foster family of children in foster care, and other families receiving child welfare services from the authorized agency or the local departments of social services in the case of authorized agencies in the definition of family for purposes of services provided by voluntary foster care agency health facilities.

NY S09237

Includes both the birth family and the foster family of children in foster care, and other families receiving child welfare services from the authorized agency or the local departments of social services in the case of authorized agencies in the definition of family for purposes of services provided by voluntary foster care agency health facilities.

NY HB4890

UNACCOMPANIED CHILDREN

NY A08572

Relates to orders of protection in child abuse and neglect proceedings in family court.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.