N.Y. Fam. Ct. Act § 518

§ 518. Effect of death, absence, or mental illness of mother. If, at\nany time before or after a petition is filed, the mother dies or becomes\nmentally ill or cannot be found within the state, neither the proceeding\nnor the right to commence the proceeding shall abate but may be\ncommenced or continued by any of the persons authorized by this article\nto commence a paternity proceeding.\n