New York City Council
Committee on Mental Health, Disabilities and Addiction
Sep 23, 2024
·
10:00 AM
6 hr 4 min
Summary
A hearing on the Behavioral Health Emergency Assistance Response Division (B-HEARD) program and mental health crisis response in New York City.
Discussions focused on:
- Expanding B-HEARD citywide
- Making it available 24/7
- Removing police from mental health crisis responses
- Incorporating peer specialists
- Improving data transparency
- Enhancing follow-up care
- Addressing language access and cultural competency.
Concerns were raised about high hospitalization rates compared to similar programs in other cities and the continued reliance on police for many mental health calls.
The hearing also covered potential improvements to the 911 dispatch process and exploring ways to direct more mental health calls to 988.
Features testimony from the Mayor's Office of Community Mental Health, NYC Health + Hospitals, FDNY, NYPD, Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Council Member Linda Lee's opening remarks on behavioral health emergency response hearing
Council Member Linda Lee, chair of the Committee on Mental Disabilities in Addiction, delivers opening remarks for a hearing on the Behavioral Health Emergency Assistance Response Division (B-HEARD) program and …
0:00:52
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4 min
Council Member Joann Ariola's opening remarks on mental health crisis response
Council Member Joann Ariola, Chair of the Committee on Fire And Emergency Management, delivers opening remarks for a hearing on mental health crisis response in New York City. She emphasizes …
0:05:02
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139 sec
Council Member Mercedes Narcisse's opening remarks on B-HEARD program and mental health crisis response
Council Member Mercedes Narcisse provides opening remarks on the B-HEARD program and New York City's approach to addressing mental health crises. She highlights the program's importance, its current state, and …
0:07:23
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4 min
Council Member Yusef Salaam discusses the importance of compassionate mental health crisis response
Council Member Yusef Salaam, chair of the committee on public safety, addresses the importance of compassionate and safe responses to mental health emergencies. He emphasizes the need for alternative programs …
0:11:45
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3 min
Council Member Justin Brannan discusses bills on mental health response data and non-public school security
Council Member Justin L. Brannan addresses the committee about two of his bills: Intro 1019 on mental health emergency response data reporting, and Intro 532 on expanding security guard funding …
0:15:47
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120 sec
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams addresses mental health crisis response and B-HEARD program
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams provides an overview of New York City's mental health crisis response, focusing on the B-HEARD program and its challenges. He emphasizes the need for better-equipped responders …
0:18:00
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4 min
Testimony by Jordyn Rosenthal, Director of Advocacy at Community Access
Jordyn Rosenthal, Director of Advocacy at Community Access and lead organizer of CCIT-NYC, provided testimony on improving mental health crisis response in New York City. She emphasized the need for …
0:23:15
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179 sec
Testimony by Peggy Herrera, Mental Health Advocate from Freedom Agenda
Peggy Herrera, a mental health advocate and member of Freedom Agenda, shared her personal experience with the current mental health crisis response system and criticized the B-HEARD program. She emphasized …
0:26:27
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145 sec
Testimony by Alex Brass, Steering Committee Member of Correct Crisis Intervention Today (CCIT) NYC, on Mental Health Crisis Response
Alex Brass shared his personal experience with a mental health crisis and police response, highlighting the need for peer support and non-police interventions. He emphasized how police involvement exacerbated his …
0:28:58
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135 sec
Comparison of mental health crisis response programs across cities
Council Member Cabán presents statistics on community responder programs in various U.S. cities, highlighting their low rates of police involvement. She then asks if people with mental health issues in …
0:32:14
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5 min
Introduction and attendees at the NYC City Council meeting
Eva Wong, Executive Director of the Mayor's Office of Community Mental Health, introduces herself and several colleagues from various city departments and agencies attending the NYC City Council meeting. The …
0:44:59
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73 sec
Overview of the Behavioral Health Emergency Assistance Response Division (B-HEARD) program
Eva Wong provides an overview of the Behavioral Health Emergency Assistance Response Division (B-HEARD) program, launched in spring 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. B-HEARD represents a significant shift in New …
0:46:13
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49 sec
Implementation and operations of the B-HEARD program
Eva Wong details the implementation and operational structure of the B-HEARD program, highlighting its innovative approach to mental health crisis response in New York City. The program combines the expertise …
0:47:03
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114 sec
911 call handling and dispatch process for B-HEARD teams
Eva Wong explains the process of handling 911 calls related to mental health crises and how B-HEARD teams are dispatched. The system involves careful assessment and triage to ensure appropriate …
0:48:58
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50 sec
Ongoing improvements and optimization of the B-HEARD program
Eva Wong describes the continuous efforts to improve and optimize the B-HEARD program based on insights gained since its launch. These improvements aim to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of …
0:49:50
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32 sec
Recent strategy changes to improve B-HEARD's effectiveness
Eva Wong outlines two new strategies recently implemented to enhance the B-HEARD program's ability to provide health-centered emergency crisis responses to as many New Yorkers as possible. - The first …
0:50:22
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123 sec
B-HEARD program response statistics and impact
Eva Wong presents statistics demonstrating the growing impact and reach of the B-HEARD program since its launch. The data shows a significant increase in the number of individuals receiving support …
0:52:26
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51 sec
Conclusion of Eva Wong's testimony and handover to DOHMH representative
Eva Wong concludes her testimony on the B-HEARD program, expressing gratitude to the city council committees and offering to answer questions. She then introduces the next speaker from the Department …
0:53:17
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16 sec
Introduction and overview of DOHMH's role in mental health
Jamie Neckles, Assistant Commissioner for the Bureau of Mental Health at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), introduces herself and outlines the department's role in …
0:53:37
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48 sec
Understanding mental health crises: Definition and context
Jamie Neckles provides context and definition for mental health crises, emphasizing their complexity and the diverse circumstances under which they can occur. She stresses that anyone can experience a mental …
0:54:26
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112 sec
Impact of the affordable housing crisis on mental health
Jamie Neckles briefly addresses the significant impact of the affordable housing crisis on the healthcare system and mental health of New Yorkers. She emphasizes the importance of addressing both mental …
0:56:19
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21 sec
Overview of DOHMH mental health crisis services
Jamie Neckles introduces the three categories of mental health crisis services offered by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH). These services are designed to provide comprehensive support for …
0:56:41
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15 sec
NYC 988 hotline: A 24/7 mental health crisis support service
Jamie Neckles details the NYC 988 hotline service, which provides 24/7 mental health crisis support to New Yorkers. This service represents the 'someone to call' category of DOHMH's crisis services. …
0:56:58
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64 sec
Mobile Crisis Teams: On-site mental health crisis response
Jamie Neckles explains the role and function of Mobile Crisis Teams, which represent the 'someone to respond' category of DOHMH's crisis services. These teams provide on-site intervention for non-life-threatening mental …
0:58:02
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98 sec
Crisis Residences: Alternative to hospitalization for mental health crises
Jamie Neckles describes Crisis Residences, which represent the 'somewhere to go' category of DOHMH's crisis services. These facilities provide an alternative to hospitalization for people experiencing mental health crises. - …
0:59:40
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67 sec
Introduction to long-term treatment and recovery programs
Jamie Neckles transitions from discussing short-term crisis services to introducing longer-term treatment and recovery programs. These programs are designed to serve individuals with the most complex behavioral health needs. - …
1:00:48
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18 sec
Single Point of Access (SPOA) system for specialized mental health services
Jamie Neckles explains the Single Point of Access (SPOA) system, which manages referrals to specialized treatment and recovery services for individuals with complex behavioral health needs in New York City. …
1:01:07
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75 sec
Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) program for serious mental illness
Jamie Neckles describes the Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) program, which provides longer-term mobile mental health and substance use treatment for individuals with documented serious mental illness. - ACT teams are …
1:02:24
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30 sec
Specialized ACT teams for forensic and shelter populations
Jamie Neckles describes specialized Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) teams that are designed to work with specific populations with unique needs. - Some ACT teams specialize in working with certain populations …
1:02:54
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21 sec
Intensive Mobile Treatment teams for complex behavioral health needs
Jamie Neckles explains the Intensive Mobile Treatment (IMT) teams, which are designed to provide comprehensive, mobile mental health and substance use services for individuals with complex behavioral health needs and …
1:03:17
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43 sec
Conclusion: DOHMH's commitment and ongoing efforts in mental health
Jamie Neckles concludes her testimony by summarizing the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's (DOHMH) extensive efforts in addressing mental health needs in New York City and acknowledging the ongoing …
1:04:00
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25 sec
Introduction and overview of B-HEARD program
Council Member Linda Lee begins her questioning about the B-HEARD program, emphasizing the goal of expanding and improving mental health crisis response services. She acknowledges the challenges faced by NYPD …
1:04:35
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56 sec
Discussion of crisis respite centers and their capacity
Council Member Lee inquires about crisis respite centers, their capacity, and plans for expansion. Jamie Neckles from DOHMH provides information on these centers, including their Medicaid reimbursement status and current …
1:05:31
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87 sec
911 dispatch training and routing for mental health crisis calls
Council Member Lee inquires about the training 911 dispatchers receive for handling mental health crisis calls and how these calls are routed. Representatives from NYPD and FDNY provide information on …
1:06:58
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4 min
Introduction and operation of 988 mental health crisis hotline
The discussion turns to the recently introduced 988 mental health crisis hotline. Jamie Neckles from DOHMH explains the purpose of 988 and how it operates in conjunction with other emergency …
1:11:37
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3 min
B-HEARD team dispatch process and eligibility criteria
Council Member Lee inquires about the B-HEARD team dispatch process and the criteria used to determine if a call is eligible for B-HEARD response. FDNY Assistant Chief Cesar Escobar explains …
1:15:29
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3 min
B-HEARD program coverage and expansion plans
Council Member Lee inquires about the current coverage of B-HEARD teams and plans for expansion. Representatives from FDNY and the Mayor's Office of Community Mental Health provide information on team …
1:18:53
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150 sec
Budget and funding concerns for B-HEARD program
Council Member Lee expresses concerns about the budget allocation for the B-HEARD program, given the increasing number of calls served. Representatives from the Mayor's Office of Community Mental Health and …
1:21:24
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3 min
Data sharing challenges between agencies for mental health crisis responses
Council Member Lee inquires about data sharing practices between agencies involved in mental health crisis responses. Representatives from various agencies explain their data collection and sharing practices, highlighting challenges due …
1:25:02
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7 min
Recruitment strategies for B-HEARD staff
Council Member Lee inquires about strategies for recruiting B-HEARD staff, given past challenges in hiring. Representatives from NYC Health + Hospitals discuss their recruitment efforts. - Staffing challenges are part …
1:32:25
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91 sec
Language access challenges in mental health crisis response
Council Member Lee raises concerns about language access in mental health crisis responses, particularly in immigrant communities. Representatives from various agencies discuss their strategies for addressing language barriers. - Health …
1:33:57
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3 min
Council Member Ariola questions EMS procedures for mental health calls
Council Member Joann Ariola inquires about recent updates to EMS operating guidelines for mental health calls, the involvement of voluntary hospital units in EDP incidents, and the procedures for EMS …
1:37:44
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4 min
911 call evaluation process for B-HEARD eligibility
Council Member Yusef Salaam inquires about the 911 operator's process for evaluating calls for B-HEARD eligibility. Deputy Chief Ebony Washington explains that after verifying the location, operators ask about the …
1:42:11
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75 sec
EMS call taker questions for mental health emergencies
Assistant Chief Cesar Escobar details the series of questions EMS call takers ask for mental health emergencies. The process starts with basic life-threatening questions and then moves to specific mental …
1:43:30
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88 sec
Criteria for police response in mental health situations
Council Member Yusef Salaam inquires about specific behaviors that require police response in mental health situations. Deputy Chief Ebony Washington and Laquisha Grant from the Mayor's Office of Community Mental …
1:44:59
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50 sec
Instances of police responding despite B-HEARD dispatch
Council Member Yusef Salaam inquires about instances where NYPD responds to calls despite being informed that a B-HEARD team has been dispatched. Laquisha Grant from the Mayor's Office of Community …
1:45:57
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55 sec
Data collection on police response to B-HEARD calls
Council Member Yusef Salaam inquires about data collection on instances where police respond to calls despite B-HEARD dispatch. Representatives from various agencies explain the current state of data collection and …
1:46:54
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135 sec
Chain of command in mental health crisis response
Council Member Yusef Salaam inquires about the chain of command in situations where police are told they're not needed but decide to take control. Representatives from FDNY and NYPD provide …
1:49:11
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110 sec
Trends in mental health emergency calls
Council Member Yusef Salaam inquires about the number of 911 mental health calls and trends over recent years. Assistant Chief Cesar Escobar provides data on the increase in mental health …
1:51:07
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105 sec
Designation of individuals as emotionally disturbed persons (EDPs)
Council Member Yusef Salaam inquires about the frequency and implications of designating individuals as emotionally disturbed persons (EDPs). Deputy Chief Ebony Washington provides context and statistics on EDP calls and …
1:52:57
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104 sec
Arrests resulting from mental health calls
Council Member Yusef Salaam inquires about the number of mental health calls that result in arrests and the associated charges. Deputy Chief Ebony Washington responds to the question. - Deputy …
1:55:00
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16 sec
Use of force in mental health calls and impact of CIT training
Council Member Yusef Salaam inquires about the rate of use of force in mental health calls compared to other calls for service, and whether this has changed since the implementation …
1:55:19
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30 sec
CIT training completion statistics
Chief of Training Olufunmilola Obe provides detailed statistics and information about Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training completion within the NYPD. The data covers training numbers, recent initiatives, and the department's …
1:56:03
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4 min
Deployment of CIT-trained officers in mental health calls
Council Member Yusef Salaam inquires about how the NYPD triages emergency calls to ensure officers with Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training or relevant specialized training are deployed to mental health …
2:00:52
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151 sec
Budget and potential benefits of mandatory CIT training
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the budget for Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training and the potential benefits of making it mandatory for all officers. Chief of Training Olufunmilola Obe …
2:03:26
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73 sec
Proposal to use only CIT-trained officers for mental health calls
Council Member Yusef Salaam proposes that the NYPD commit to using only Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) trained officers to respond to mental health calls. Chief of Training Olufunmilola Obe responds …
2:04:48
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46 sec
Training for B-HEARD responders: Social workers and EMTs
Council Member Mercedes Narcisse inquires about the training provided to social workers and EMT paramedics in the B-HEARD program, specifically regarding de-escalation tactics and clinical skills. Jason Hansman from NYC …
2:05:36
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166 sec
Roles of B-HEARD responders within FDNY and H+H
Council Member Mercedes Narcisse inquires about the roles of B-HEARD responders within FDNY and H+H. Jason Hansman and Chief Cesar Escobar provide information on the responders' roles in their respective …
2:08:22
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49 sec
Language services provided by B-HEARD
Council Member Mercedes Narcisse inquires about the language services provided by B-HEARD responders. Chief Cesar Escobar and Jason Hansman provide information on the language capabilities of their teams. - FDNY …
2:09:12
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93 sec
B-HEARD response times compared to other emergency services
Council Member Mercedes Narcisse inquires about B-HEARD response times, which average about 20 minutes, and asks what can be done to decrease them to match other emergency services' 8-11 minute …
2:10:46
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179 sec
Comparison of B-HEARD response to 988 crisis line
Council Member Mercedes Narcisse inquires about the comparison between B-HEARD response times and the 988 crisis line. Jamie Neckles from the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene explains the differences …
2:13:46
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66 sec
Billing for B-HEARD services and related medical care
Council Member Mercedes Narcisse inquires about billing practices for B-HEARD services, particularly if emergency medical care or ambulance services are deemed necessary. Jason Hansman from NYC Health and Hospitals provides …
2:14:52
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117 sec
Age range for B-HEARD services
Council Member Mercedes Narcisse inquires about the age range of individuals served by B-HEARD, particularly focusing on whether they respond to people under 18. Jason Hansman and Laquisha Grant provide …
2:16:49
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63 sec
Involuntary removals and lack of data following mayor's announcement
Council Member Mercedes Narcisse inquires about data on involuntary removals since the mayor's November 2023 announcement on new procedures. Laquisha Grant from the Mayor's Office of Community Mental Health and …
2:17:54
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93 sec
Council Member Cabán questions officials on B-HEARD data and program outcomes
Council Member Tiffany Cabán engages in a detailed Q&A session with city officials about the B-HEARD (Behavioral Health Emergency Assistance Response Division) program. She inquires about data reporting, program evaluation, …
2:19:35
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4 min
Council Member Schulmann addresses the case of Win Rozario and systemic failures in mental health crisis response
Council Member Lynn Schulmann discusses the case of Win Rozario, a constituent who was killed during a mental health crisis response. She emphasizes the failures in the mental health system, …
2:24:26
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69 sec
Discussion on differences between FDNY and NYPD categorization of mental health emergencies
Council Member Lynn Schulmann inquires about the differences in how FDNY and NYPD categorize mental health emergencies. Representatives from both departments explain their processes and reasons for the differences. - …
2:25:35
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153 sec
NYPD's role in responding to potentially violent mental health crisis situations
Joshua Levin from NYPD explains the department's role in responding to potentially violent mental health crisis situations, while Council Member Lynn Schulmann expresses concerns about NYPD being the sole responder. …
2:28:08
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67 sec
Inquiry into the referral system for mental health services, including hospital referrals
Council Member Lynn Schulmann inquires about the referral system for mental health services, particularly focusing on hospital referrals. - Schulmann asks about referrals from hospitals, noting that people in mental …
2:29:27
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78 sec
Inquiry into the decision-making process for B-HEARD program expansion to new neighborhoods
Council Member Erik D. Bottcher questions the decision-making process for expanding the B-HEARD program to new neighborhoods. - Bottcher asks which neighborhoods will receive the B-HEARD program next when the …
2:30:46
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112 sec
Discussion on considering high-traffic areas like Times Square for B-HEARD expansion
Council Member Erik D. Bottcher inquires about considering high-traffic areas like Times Square for B-HEARD program expansion. - Bottcher asks if factors like Times Square's 50 million annual visitors would …
2:32:38
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79 sec
Council Member Bottcher emphasizes the need for behavioral health responses to mental health crisis 911 calls
Council Member Erik D. Bottcher concludes by emphasizing the need for behavioral health responses to mental health crisis 911 calls, particularly in his district. - Bottcher states that existing resources …
2:33:58
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55 sec
Council Member Brewer shares personal experience with mental health crisis response
Council Member Gale Brewer recounts a recent experience where a young man in crisis came to her district office seeking help. She highlights the challenges in connecting individuals to immediate …
2:35:01
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67 sec
Discussion on 988 hotline capabilities and limitations
Council Member Brewer inquires about the capabilities and limitations of the 988 hotline in responding to mental health crises. Jamie Neckles explains the process 988 operators would follow in handling …
2:36:08
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69 sec
Inquiry into availability and management of mental health crisis beds
Council Member Brewer inquires about the availability and management of mental health crisis beds in New York City. Jamie Neckles provides information on different types of mental health housing and …
2:37:17
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106 sec
Discussion on tracking and follow-up of individuals after mental health services
Council Member Brewer raises concerns about tracking and follow-up for individuals after they receive mental health services. Jamie Neckles explains the current follow-up practices and challenges. - Services are required …
2:39:03
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126 sec
Exploration of substance use treatment and its intersection with mental health services
Council Member Brewer inquires about the availability and effectiveness of substance use treatment programs, particularly for individuals with co-occurring mental health issues. Jamie Neckles discusses the approach to handling such …
2:41:09
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162 sec
Discussion on data tracking and standardization for mental health services
Council Member Brewer inquires about efforts to standardize and improve data tracking for mental health services. Laquisha Grant provides information on current data reporting practices. - BEHARD program data is …
2:43:51
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58 sec
Council Member Narcisse questions NYPD on CIT and autism training progress
Council Member Mercedes Narcisse inquires about the progress of Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training for NYPD officers and the implementation of training for interacting with individuals with autism. NYPD Chief …
2:44:50
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166 sec
Council Member Cabán questions low salaries of EMS workers
Council Member Tiffany Cabán inquires about the salaries of social workers and EMS workers in crisis response teams. Assistant Chief Cesar Escobar reveals that an EMS worker with 3 years …
2:47:37
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60 sec
Discussion on incorporating peer support specialists in B-HEARD teams
Council Member Cabán inquires about the use of peer support specialists in mental health response teams. While the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene confirms they use peers in their …
2:48:40
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137 sec
Inquiry into presence of mental health experts in emergency dispatch
Council Member Cabán inquires about the presence of mental health experts in emergency dispatch to assist with screening calls and training. The responses reveal that while there are medical doctors …
2:50:58
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45 sec
Discussion on support for dispatchers after traumatic calls
Council Member Cabán inquires about the support provided to dispatchers after handling particularly traumatic calls. Both FDNY and NYPD representatives provide information on their respective protocols. - FDNY EMS dispatch …
2:51:45
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123 sec
Plans for public education on reporting mental health crises
Council Member Cabán inquires about public education programs to help individuals better report mental health crises when calling 911. Laquisha Grant from the Mayor's Office of Community Mental Health responds …
2:53:49
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43 sec
Debate on defining and assessing violence in mental health crisis situations
Council Member Cabán raises concerns about how violence is defined and assessed in mental health crisis situations, particularly in the context of dispatch and response teams. The discussion reveals differences …
2:54:32
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4 min
Exploring the future vision and expansion of the B-HEARD program
Council Member Cabán asks about the 'dream world' vision for the future of the B-HEARD program, encouraging officials to think big about potential expansions and improvements. - Laquisha Grant emphasizes …
2:59:28
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110 sec
Council Member Salaam questions CIT training evaluation and 911 to 988 transfers
Council Member Yusef Salaam inquires about the evaluation of Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training effectiveness and the feasibility of implementing 911 to 988 transfers for mental health crisis calls. - …
3:01:27
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69 sec
Council Member Salaam advocates for including those with lived experience in decision-making
Council Member Yusef Salaam emphasizes the importance of including those closest to the issues in decision-making processes, particularly in mental health crisis response. - Salaam, new to politics, stresses that …
3:02:38
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47 sec
NYPD representative provides data on use of force in mental health calls and CIT training effectiveness
Joshua Levin, Managing Attorney for NYPD, provides data on the use of force in mental health-related calls and discusses the effectiveness of Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training. - Out of …
3:03:26
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129 sec
Council Member Salaam seeks clarification on NYPD mental health call statistics
Council Member Yusef Salaam requests clarification on the statistics provided by NYPD representatives regarding mental health-related calls and responses. - Salaam expresses interest in using this data for after-action plans …
3:05:35
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80 sec
Council Member Brewer inquires about mobile crisis teams and B-HEARD program
Council Member Gale Brewer inquires about the relationship between mobile crisis teams and the B-HEARD program, their operations, and staffing. Jamie Neckles from the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene …
3:06:58
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126 sec
Council Member Holden questions the triage process for mental health crisis calls
Council Member Robert Holden inquires about the triage process for mental health crisis calls, focusing on response times and decision-making in complex situations. Assistant Chief Cesar Escobar from FDNY provides …
3:09:24
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173 sec
Testimony by Educational Administrator from Razi School on School Security
The testimony advocates for lowering the eligibility number for safety guards in non-public schools, including Catholic, Yeshiva, and Islamic schools. The speaker emphasizes the need for increased security due to …
3:18:23
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110 sec
Testimony by Dr. Khadijah Jean Pryce, Chief Administrator and Instructional Leader of Islamic Cultural Center School, on School Security
Dr. Khadijah Jean Pryce, representing the Islamic Cultural Center School, testified in support of lowering the eligibility number for school security funding. She emphasized the ongoing security concerns faced by …
3:20:14
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97 sec
Testimony by Bracha Rutner, Head of School at Yeshiva University High School for Girls, on School Security
Bracha Rutner, representing Yeshiva University High School for Girls, testified in support of expanding security guard funding for non-public schools with fewer than 300 students. She emphasized the importance of …
3:21:52
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118 sec
Testimony by Deanna Philippe, Principal of Cristo Rey Brooklyn High School, on Intro 532
Deanna Philippe, Principal of Cristo Rey Brooklyn High School, testified in support of Intro 532, which would expand security guard funding for non-public schools. She emphasized the importance of protecting …
3:23:58
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120 sec
Council Member Yeger questions Principal Philippe about school security funding
Council Member Kalman Yeger questions Principal Deanna Philippe about Cristo Rey Brooklyn High School's experience with the school security guard reimbursement program. The discussion reveals that the school has never …
3:26:05
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33 sec
Testimony by Joseph Rosenberg, Executive Director of Catholic Community Relations Council
Joseph Rosenberg, representing the Catholic Community Relations Council, strongly supports Intro 532, which would expand eligibility for non-public schools to receive funding for security guards. He argues that this bill …
3:27:26
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135 sec
Testimony by Sydney Altfield, Executive Director of Teach NYS on Non-Public School Security Funding
Sydney Altfield, Executive Director of Teach NYS, testified in support of expanding the local law that provides security guard funding for non-public schools. She urged the council to lower the …
3:29:45
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120 sec
Testimony by Logan Clark, Assistant Director of Budget Review at Independent Budget Office (IBO)
Logan Clark from the Independent Budget Office (IBO) provided analysis on Intro 532-2024, which concerns the reimbursement of non-public schools for security guard services. The proposed legislation would expand eligibility …
3:31:50
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155 sec
Council Member Yeger inquires about potential union jobs from proposed legislation
Council Member Kalman Yeger engages in a brief Q&A with Logan Clark from the Independent Budget Office regarding the potential number of jobs that could be created by the proposed …
3:34:36
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40 sec
Council Member Lee concludes panel and introduces next speakers
Council Member Linda Lee wraps up the current panel discussion and transitions to the next topic, which is returning to the B-HEARD program public testimony. - Lee thanks the current …
3:35:18
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45 sec
Testimony by Elliot Jones, Program Manager of Oakland Fire Department's MACRO Program
Elliot Jones, Program Manager of Oakland Fire Department's MACRO Program, provided insights on alternative mental health crisis response programs. He commended NYC's B-HEARD program and emphasized the need for patience …
3:36:11
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148 sec
Testimony by Jeffery Bustamante, Deputy Director of Albuquerque Community Safety
Jeffery Bustamante, Deputy Director of Albuquerque Community Safety, provided testimony on their city's approach to behavioral health and mental health-related calls for service. He highlighted the agency's 3-year history, responding …
3:39:06
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84 sec
Testimony by Sam Rabins, Associate Director of Criminal Justice Services at WellPower
Sam Rabins, Associate Director of Criminal Justice Services at WellPower, provided testimony on Denver's Support Team Assisted Response (STAR) program, an alternative response to low-risk 911 calls related to substance …
3:40:40
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177 sec
Questions about peer support in Oakland's crisis response program
Council Member Tiffany Cabán inquires about the use of peer support in Oakland's crisis response program. Elliot Jones from Oakland's MACRO program confirms that they use teams of two, including …
3:43:52
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77 sec
Inquiries about Denver's data collection and publication practices
Council Member Cabán asks Sam from Denver's STAR program about their data collection and publication practices. Sam explains that they collect various demographic data, including veteran and housing status, as …
3:45:09
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113 sec
Discussion on public health and safety policies for crisis response
Council Member Cabán asks about the overall public health and safety policies in different municipalities, particularly regarding the intersection of homelessness and mental health. Responses from Sam (Denver) and Elliot …
3:47:02
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3 min
Council member inquires about state laws' impact on crisis response programs
Council Member Linda Lee asks the panel about how different state laws across the country impact mental health crisis response programs like B-HEARD. She expresses interest in learning from other …
3:50:24
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3 min
Testimony by Clarisa Alayeto, Manager of Community and Government Affairs at Dream Public Charter School Network
Clarisa Alayeto from Dream Public Charter School Network testifies in support of Intro 532, urging its amendment to include charter schools in private spaces. She emphasizes the need for equal …
3:54:46
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92 sec
Testimony by Erin Acosta, Director of Family Engagement and Communications at Growing Up Green Charter Schools
Erin Acosta, representing Growing Up Green Charter Schools, testified in support of amending Intro 532 to include charter schools in security guard funding. She emphasized the need for a safe …
3:56:26
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129 sec
Testimony by Nicholas Tishuk, Executive Director of Bedford Stuyvesant New Beginnings Charter Schools, on School Security Funding
Nicholas Tishuk, Executive Director of Bedford Stuyvesant New Beginnings Charter Schools, testifies in support of expanding school security funding to all types of schools, regardless of their governance model. He …
3:58:39
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112 sec
Testimony by Ramon Leclerc, Outreach & Recreation Assistant from New Alternatives for LGBTQ+ Homeless Youth
Ramon Leclerc provides testimony criticizing the current approach to mental health crisis response, particularly the involvement of police. He shares personal experiences highlighting issues with police and EMS responses to …
4:01:37
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144 sec
Testimony by Jonathan Chung, Director of Public Policy and Advocacy at National Alliance on Mental Illness of New York City (NAMI NYC), on B-HEARD Program and Mental Health Crisis Response
Jonathan Chung from NAMI NYC expresses concerns about the implementation of the B-HEARD program for mental health crisis response in New York City. He argues that while the program's goals …
4:04:16
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162 sec
Testimony by Jim Bohovich, Steering Committee Member of Correct Crisis Intervention Today NYC (CCIT-NYC)
Jim Bohovich, a peer specialist with personal experience of mental health issues, provided testimony on de-escalation techniques and the importance of peer support in mental health crisis response. He emphasized …
4:07:02
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129 sec
Testimony by Joelle Ballam-Schwan, Associate Director of Engagement and Communications at Supportive Housing Network of New York
Joelle Ballam-Schwan from the Supportive Housing Network of New York testified about the critical importance of mental health crisis response. She highlighted the need for a peer-led, non-police mental health …
4:09:17
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125 sec
Testimony by Ray Schwartz, Member of Correct Crisis Intervention Today (CCIT) NYC
Ray Schwartz, a member of Correct Crisis Intervention Today (CCIT) NYC, provided testimony on the city's mental health crisis response. He expressed concerns about the current system, where police still …
4:11:22
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134 sec
Testimony by Grace Nichols, Representative from New York Act Up
Grace Nichols, representing New York Act Up, testified about the need for peer-led mental health crisis response in New York City. She shared her personal experience with police intervention during …
4:13:40
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4 min
Council member Lee thanks panel and emphasizes importance of peer support services
Council Member Linda Lee expresses gratitude to the panel and emphasizes the importance of peer support services in various contexts, including the criminal justice system and community crisis response. She …
4:17:49
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54 sec
Council member Lee addresses specific panel members
Council Member Linda Lee addresses specific members of the previous panel, acknowledging their contributions and making light-hearted comments. - She thanks Jim for his calming presence and jokingly suggests he …
4:18:43
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47 sec
Testimony by Terry Troia, President of Project Hospitality, on Mental Health Crisis Response
Terry Troia, President of Project Hospitality in Staten Island, testified about the need for improved mental health crisis response in New York City. She shared a tragic story of a …
4:20:46
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104 sec
Testimony by Bella SoYoung Park, Bilingual Mental Health Counselor and Case Manager at Korean American Family Service Center (KAFSC)
Bella SoYoung Park, representing the Korean American Family Service Center (KAFSC), testified in support of expanding programs like B-HEARD for mental health crisis response. She emphasized the importance of culturally …
4:22:35
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115 sec
Testimony by Amber Song, Senior Program Coordinator at Asian American Federation
Amber Song from the Asian American Federation testified about the need for culturally competent mental health crisis response for the Asian community in New York City. She highlighted the limitations …
4:24:36
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140 sec
Testimony by Kimberly Saltz, Legal Fellow from Legal Defense Fund
Kimberly Saltz from the Legal Defense Fund testifies on the need for a better alternative to law enforcement for behavioral health emergencies in New York City. She critiques the current …
4:27:00
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89 sec
Testimony by Cassandra Kelly, Attorney at Legal Aid Society's Criminal Law Reform Policy Unit
Cassandra Kelly from the Legal Aid Society's Criminal Law Reform Policy Unit testified about the negative consequences of police involvement in mental health crisis responses. She emphasized the need for …
4:28:34
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146 sec
Testimony by Alison Wilkey, Director of Government Affairs and Strategic Campaigns at Coalition for the Homeless
Alison Wilkey from Coalition for the Homeless testified on the B-HEARD program and mental health crisis response in NYC, highlighting concerns about gaps in service, effectiveness, and potential biases in …
4:31:03
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155 sec
Cultural sensitivity in mental health assessments and algorithms
Council Member Linda Lee discusses the importance of cultural sensitivity in mental health assessments and algorithms. She shares her experience working on a grant to improve the cultural appropriateness of …
4:33:39
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40 sec
Council member synthesizes information on hospitalization rates and program success metrics
Council Member Cabán synthesizes information from the advocates' testimony and data from other cities regarding mental health response programs. She highlights two key points: - The importance of diverse settings …
4:34:47
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71 sec
Testimony by Analicia Williams on NYPD and FDNY Interactions with Individuals Experiencing Mental Health Crises
Analicia Williams provided powerful testimony about her traumatic experiences with NYPD and FDNY during mental health crises. She described instances of physical assault, wrongful arrest, and degrading treatment that exacerbated …
4:37:26
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3 min
Testimony by Sasha Myrie, Mother and Advocate
Sasha Myrie, a mother and advocate, shares a harrowing personal experience of calling 911 for her daughter's mental health crisis, which resulted in traumatic police intervention and legal consequences. She …
4:41:36
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7 min
Council Member Lee emphasizes the need for 988 and B-HEARD improvements
Council Member Linda Lee responds to the testimony by emphasizing the purpose of the hearing: to improve mental health crisis response. She highlights two key areas of focus: - Making …
4:49:13
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16 sec
Testimony by Sakeena Trice, Senior Staff Attorney at New York Lawyers for the Public Interest (NYLPI) on the B-HEARD Program
Sakeena Trice, a senior staff attorney at New York Lawyers for the Public Interest (NYLPI), provided testimony on the city's B-HEARD program. She expressed deep concern about the city's practices …
4:49:31
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108 sec
Testimony by Arlene Machado, Case Manager at Bronx HOPE Program
Arlene Machado, a case manager for the Bronx HOPE Program, testified about the critical need for mental health care and the value of peer specialists in addressing substance use and …
4:51:25
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132 sec
Testimony by Victor Herrera, Leader-Member of Freedom Agenda, on Mental Health Crisis Response
Victor Herrera, a leader-member of Freedom Agenda and mental health advocate, testifies about the need for improved mental health crisis response in NYC. He criticizes the current system, particularly the …
4:53:43
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126 sec
Testimony by Chaplain Dr. Victoria Phillips, Founder/CEO of Visionary V, on B-HEARD and Mental Health Crisis Response
Chaplain Dr. Victoria Phillips, a mental health advocate, provides testimony on the B-HEARD program and mental health crisis response in New York City. She criticizes the limited coverage and hours …
4:55:55
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5 min
Council member addresses systemic issues in mental health treatment
Council Member Linda Lee highlights the systemic issues in mental health treatment, particularly the lack of integrated care for individuals with multiple conditions. - Points out that the current system …
5:01:54
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24 sec
Victor Herrera shares experiences with mental health crisis response
Victor Herrera shares his personal experiences with being reported as emotionally disturbed and the subsequent traumatic interactions with law enforcement and healthcare systems. - Describes being reported as emotionally disturbed …
5:02:36
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106 sec
Testimony by Leah Faria, Director of Community Engagement at Women's Community Justice Association, on B-HEARD Program and Mental Health Crisis Response
Leah Faria, representing the Women's Community Justice Association, testified in support of CCIT-NYC and expressed concerns about the B-HEARD program's structure and outcomes. She emphasized the need for non-police responses …
5:05:47
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5 min
Testimony by Helen Skipper, Executive Director of NYC Justice Peer Initiative, on B-HEARD Program and Peer Support in Crisis Response
Helen Skipper, Executive Director of NYC Justice Peer Initiative, provides passionate testimony on the importance of incorporating peer support and lived experience into mental health crisis response programs like B-HEARD. …
5:11:17
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3 min
Testimony by Alexandra Nyman, Founder of Break Free Foundation, on Mental Health Crisis Response and Peer Support
Alexandra Nyman, a peer recovery coach and founder of the Break Free Foundation, testified about the importance of peer support in mental health crisis response and the need for better …
5:15:22
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4 min
Testimony by Michael Nugent, Program Director of Baltic Street Wellness Solutions
Michael Nugent, representing Baltic Street Wellness Solutions, provided testimony on mental health crisis response and peer-led services. He emphasized three main points: the issue of involuntary treatment, the importance of …
5:20:17
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163 sec
Testimony by Dr. Kayla Hackman, Medical Doctor and Member of the Public, on Mental Health Crisis Response
Dr. Kayla Hackman, a medical doctor with personal experience of psychosis, provided testimony on the critical state of New York City's emergency services, particularly in relation to mental health crises. …
5:23:04
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139 sec
Discussion on peer specialists in treatment courts
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the challenges of incorporating peer specialists into the treatment court system, particularly for veterans. Helen Skipper, speaking from her roles in various organizations, responds …
5:25:24
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3 min
Testimony by Tamara Miguel, Independent Advocate for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities
Tamara Miguel, an independent advocate for individuals with mental health crises and developmental disabilities, provided testimony on the importance of addressing mental health and developmental disabilities in the system. She …
5:30:01
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146 sec
Testimony by Mark Laster, 3rd Vice Chair of Queens Community Board 6, on B-HEARD Program
Mark Laster, a licensed social worker and 3rd Vice Chair of Queens Community Board 6, testified in support of the Correct Crisis Intervention Today (CCIT-NYC) coalition's recommendations regarding the B-HEARD …
5:32:36
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157 sec
Testimony by Jenna Shugart, Mental Health Service Provider and NAMI NYC Ambassador
Jenna Shugart, a mental health service provider and NAMI NYC ambassador, shared a personal story highlighting the need for improved mental health crisis response in New York City. She advocated …
5:35:18
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125 sec
Testimony by Priscilla Graham, Member of the Public
Priscilla Graham, a long-time resident of New York City, expressed strong support for defunding the NYPD and called for Mayor Adams' resignation. She cited concerns about police misconduct, racial profiling, …
5:37:28
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126 sec
Testimony by Katherine Bajuk, Public Defender and Mental Health Specialist at New York County Defender Services (NYCDS)
Katherine Bajuk, a public defender and mental health specialist at New York County Defender Services (NYCDS), testifies about the challenges faced by her clients, who are often people of color …
5:39:39
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132 sec
Testimony by Galloway, Advocacy Manager at The Ali Forney Center
Galloway, the Advocacy Manager at The Ali Forney Center, testified about the critical need for the B-HEARD program for LGBTQIA+ youth experiencing homelessness and mental health crises. They highlighted the …
5:43:11
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170 sec
Council Member Lee questions Galloway about B-HEARD program response
Council Member Linda Lee engages in a Q&A session with Galloway about the decreased responses from the B-HEARD program. They discuss the reasons behind the decrease, including precinct limitations and …
5:49:15
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58 sec
Testimony by Sabina Saleh, Vice President of Behavioral Health at Project Renewal
Sabina Saleh, VP of Behavioral Health at Project Renewal, testified about their Support and Connection Center (SCC) and its role in mental health crisis response in NYC. She emphasized the …
5:50:52
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171 sec
Testimony by Dr. Susan Margaret Murphy, President of Drug Intervention Institute, on Substance Use and Mental Health Crisis Response
Dr. Susan Margaret Murphy, President of the Drug Intervention Institute, testified about the intersection of substance use disorders and mental health crises, emphasizing the need for increased access to naloxone …
5:53:56
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178 sec
Testimony by Beth Haroules, Senior Staff Attorney at New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU)
Beth Haroules, representing the New York Civil Liberties Union, provided testimony on two main topics: the constitutionality of Intro 532 and criticisms of the B-HEARD program. She argued that Intro …
5:57:10
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3 min
Testimony by Brooke Taylor, Director of Social Work at Urban Justice Center Mental Health Project
Brooke Taylor, Director of Social Work at the Urban Justice Center Mental Health Project, testified about the need for changes in mental health crisis response in New York City. She …
6:00:24
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3 min
