N.Y. Soc. Serv. Law § 374-d

§ 374-d. Authority to operate public institutions for children. A\nsocial services official who is authorized to place children in family\nhomes and institutions, pursuant to section three hundred ninety-eight,\nmay be authorized by the department to operate public institutions for\nchildren in compliance with regulations of the department, provided that\nsuch official demonstrates to the satisfaction of the department the\nneed therefor and that suitable care is not otherwise available for\nchildren under the care of such official. Such institutions shall be\nsubject to supervision, visitation and inspection by the department and\nshall also be subject to visitation and inspection by the board.\n