State lawmakers on Wednesday called for a strengthening of the state's 211 helpline as a part of New York's disaster emergency plan while also boosting funding for it in the state budget. 

The proposal backed by state Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo and Sen. Peter Harckham is meant to provide for the 211 helpline's continued activiation during an emergency as part of a response for non-emergency requests for assistance. 

The helpline was initially developed in order to provide greater access to human services. But it has since evolved into an asset in disaster response and recovery in the long term during snow and ice storms, as well as floods and the COVID-19 pandemic. The line is meant to provide access to resources while also relieving 911 and other government emergencies of non-emergecy assistance when a disaster strikes. 

“I cannot say enough about how valuable 2-1-1 is to our community and state," said Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo. "They respond to calls 24/7 providing referrals to a wide variety of services. We could never have gotten through the past two years without them. Now they need the recognition and security that comes with being an official part of the state’s emergency response plan."

Meanwhile, lawmakers are also calling for $3 million be set aside for 211 services in the state's budget, which is expected to pass next week. If approved, the funding would be an increase of $1 million from the prior year. Adding more funding would allow for the development of a statewide database of services, a centralized website and reimbursement for activation in areas that are experiencing a disaster. 

“It is time for New York to realize the full capabilities of its 2-1-1 helpline as an information and communications tool outside of emergencies," Harckham said. "This new legislation will set the 2-1-1 helpline up to make it the kind of resource residents can depend upon, where people can turn to for direction and guidance in regard to state services and various programs, accessing assistance and more.”