N.Y. Social Services Law § 102: Powers of public welfare officials to bring and defend suits

§ 102. Powers of public welfare officials to bring and defend suits.

A public welfare official responsible, by or pursuant to any provision

of this chapter, for the administration of the public assistance or care

granted or applied for is empowered to bring proceedings in a court of

competent jurisdiction

1. to compel any person liable by law for support to contribute to

the support of any person cared for at public expense, or person liable

to become so dependent. A bond may be required of such person liable

for support to indemnify the public welfare district against the cost of

the support of such person;

2. to recover penalties, forfeitures and prosecute any bonds,

undertakings and recognizances;

3. and defend in any court all matters relating to the support of

persons at public expense.