Commissioner of Social Services v. Thomas M.

OPINION OF THE COURT

Michael A. Ambrosio, J.

This case raises a continuing dispute between the Commissioner of Social Services and the Judges of Family Court concerning the requirements of section 49-b (subd 1, par [b]) of the Personal Property Law. The Commissioner is charged with the duty of securing the financial contribution of persons whose spouses and children are recipients of public assistance. In furtherance of this duty, the Commissioner sued Thomas M. to contribute to the support of his wife and four children. Following a hearing, the hearing examiner recommended support in the…