Albany, NY – Assemblywoman Amy Paulin (D-Westchester), Chair of the Assembly Health Committee, announced that her bill to support families through loss has been signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul (Ch. 582 of 2025 and Ch. 28 of 2026). This legislation directs the State Office for the Aging to publish a “Guide to Actions When Someone Close Dies.” It will be a comprehensive guide to help people navigate the practical challenges that arise after losing someone close to them. The guide will provide information on economic and legal resources, mental health support, burial or disposition arrangements, and other essential topics to assist families during a difficult time.

The guide will be drafted with input from professionals in varying related industries, such as funeral directors, mental health professionals and estate planning attorneys. It will include information on economic security, including pensions, social security, life and health insurance, death benefits, and estate taxes. It will also instruct surviving relatives on the process to obtain death certificates, wills and other legal information, provide them with mental health resources for grief, and outline the steps needed to arrange disposition and funeral services.

“This legislation addresses a critical gap in support for New Yorkers dealing with the death of a loved one, when confusion and bureaucratic hurdles can compound an already painful experience,” said Assemblywoman Paulin. “By creating an expert-vetted guide, the State will help people navigate complex legal, financial, and practical matters during a period when they're least equipped to handle them.”

State Senator Cordell Cleare, Chair of the Senate Aging Committee stated: “The passing of a loved one calls for bereavement and reflection, yet we must also ensure that those who mourn feel safe, supported and empowered to make decisions concerning the preservation and continuance of a family legacy. That is what this new law is all about and I thank Prime Sponsor Paulin and the Governor for their leadership and contributions.”

“One of the most difficult and emotionally taxing experiences for any family is the loss of a loved one. Access to objective, accurate and timely information on economic, legal, mental health, and burial resources will greatly help families manage the complex issues that often follow a loss,” said Kristen McManus, AARP New York’s Director of Government Affairs and Advocacy. “AARP is pleased to see this bill become a reality for all New Yorkers.”

“No one should have to struggle through red tape and confusion while mourning the loss of someone they love,” said Paulin. “I am grateful to Governor Hochul for signing this bill into law, and for her commitment to supporting New Yorkers who are grieving.”

This bill was passed in the State Senate by Senator Cordell Cleare.