Policy Advocacy
Fighting for, advocating for, and creating just public policies for people experiencing poverty.
NYLAG stands proudly with vulnerable communities in New York, and beyond. We believe in the power of the law to change lives, so we push to ensure that our laws are just. We work to shape laws and policies, to reform those that are discriminatory or outdated, and to create new laws when emerging needs call for them.
Our Approach
We amplify the voices of our clients by advocating for them in spaces where they may not have a seat at the table. We do this in the following ways:
- Educating policymakers about issues of poverty and the gaps in our civil justice system
- Drafting legislation, public comments, and statements
- Delivering testimony at government hearings, briefings, and other relevant spaces
- Leading and taking part in coalitions and committees that integrate our clients’ needs into policy conversations
- Marching and rallying with our clients and supporters
Policy advocacy statements, public comments, and news.
Safety Net Assistance (SNA) Benefits Extended to Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Beneficiaries
The New York Legal Assistance Group is pleased to announce that we have reached a settlement agreement that will result in New York expanding eligibility for subsistence public assistance, called Safety Net Assistance (SNA) benefits, to special immigrant juvenile (SIJ) beneficiaries—unmarried immigrants under 21 years old who have been abandoned, abused, or neglected by one or both of their parents.
Issue Brief: Lessons from COVID-19 and Recommendations for New York Courts
When NY’s courts went almost entirely virtual in March 2020, many litigants faced significant technological hurdles to vindicate their rights. We explore these hurdles and offer recommendations to improve virtual court and administrative proceedings.
Testimony: Aging Vets Need Access to Legal Services During COVID Digital Divide
NYLAG’s Ryan Foley and Ruth Stein press for increased access to free legal services to address the digital divide older Veterans experience when seeking help with complex, intersecting legal issues affecting their health.
