A scaled-back version of a benefits auto-enrollment proposal was approved by the City Council amid concerns over immigrant privacy and potential public charge risks, which derailed the original, more comprehensive plan. Lawmakers compromised to address fears that automatic enrollment could expose undocumented residents to federal scrutiny or jeopardize their eligibility for benefits. The revised measure aims to streamline access to city assistance while mitigating legal and privacy obstacles that threatened the broader initiative. Supporters and critics alike will now weigh whether the changes strike the right balance between efficiency and protection.
The City Council passed a drastically pared down benefits auto-enrollment bill Thursday after immigrant privacy and public charge fears helped sink the broader plan to automatically enroll eligible New Yorkers in city benefits.
