ALBANY, N.Y. (NEXSTAR) — Gov. Kathy Hochul unveiled the "New York Experience" (NYX), a statewide strategy to overhaul how New Yorkers interact with the state government. The initiative tries to modernize, simplify, and speed up services and departments, making them more accessible and effective. Hochul wants the strategy to cut red tape, expand online options, and improve customer service, with a particular focus in five main areas: Closing enrollment gaps: Streamlining access to services in underserved communities Reducing the "time tax": Eliminating steps to save time for users Boosting operational efficiency: Cutting bureaucracy and improving service delivery Improving digital services: Creating user-friendly, mobile-accessible online platforms Enhancing customer satisfaction: Making services more responsive to individual needs New York offers rebates for energy efficient appliances If all goes according to plan, New Yorkers should end up with quicker access to benefits. Automation should process applications for Medicaid, unemployment, and SNAP much faster. Redundant paperwork across different agencies would also be cut back, so it would be easier to apply for multiple benefits. Within the next six months, New Yorkers can expect fewer forms, newer websites, and the phasing out of outdated processes. Major upgrades, like new online portals and automated systems, will roll out later. Amtrak to restore Empire Service for holiday season NYX targets the Departments of Health (DOH), Motor Vehicles (DMV), and Labor (DOL) for immediate reform. Agency leadership will have to meet quarterly with representatives from the new Office of Customer Experience to monitor progress, fix policies, and come up with improvements. Focusing on reducing bottlenecks, Tonya Webster will oversee the rollout as the state's new Chief Customer Experience Officer. "Every state agency has a role to play in making sure we deliver on our promise to create a more efficient and responsive government that continues to put New Yorkers at the center of decision-making," she said in a written statement included in Hochul's announcement. "The state is building a government that truly works for the people that we serve." Judge: Sirius broke the law with convoluted cancellations Streamlined DMV services should include shorter wait times and more transactions available online. In-person visits would be limited once New Yorkers can renew their licenses or update their registrations digitally. They'll also install digital kiosks at busy DMVs to reduce lines. The vision behind NYX includes expanded health services, with new mobile options for smartphones. DOH is slated to improve telehealth and roll out an online scheduling portal for appointments at public health facilities. Advocates push 5-year free universal childcare plan Simplified labor resources would make it easier for job seekers to connect with opportunities. A revamped state job board will customize recommendations and strip down the application process. Complaints about workplace safety violations would also be easier to report through an updated DOL portal. Besides reviewing outdated policy and training state workers on customer service, agencies will have to follow plain-language standards to make sure their information is easy to understand. Plus, all online services will come in Spanish, Chinese, and other languages commonly spoken by New Yorkers. New York labor coalition wants worker protections State services would also include mobile-friendly interfaces. The state also plans to collaborate with libraries and community centers to help residents who lack internet access or digital literacy. A dedicated website will have updates, tools, timelines, guidelines, tutorials on using the state’s new systems, and examples to follow for state agencies implementing changes. The platform will also launch public feedback channels—like surveys and helplines—so New Yorkers can suggest improvements and keep agencies accountable. NYSED releases standardized test results for 2023-2024 school year Hochul described NYX as the roadmap to a faster and more equitable government. She said that NYX would build trust in a more user-friendly political establishment. Monroe County receives over $1M to fight opioid epidemic Bird flu detected in raw milk from California, state officials warn 'Seinfeld' star has lost 110 pounds since height of show, but says there's a downside News 8 Celebrates: November 25, 2024 New York launches NYX Initiative to improve public services