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Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.

New York City Council

Committee on General Welfare

Nov 19, 2024

·

10:00 AM

5 hr 33 min

Summary

A hearing on the implementation of the administration's 30/60 day rules for asylum seekers in city shelters.

Discussions focused on the impact of these policies on asylum seekers, including:

  • Disruptions to education, healthcare, and legal services
  • Challenges in obtaining work authorization and housing
  • Concerns about increased homelessness

Council members called for ending the shelter time limits and investing in more comprehensive support services.

Features testimony from the Mayor's Office of Asylum Seeker Operations, NYC Health + Hospitals, Department of Homeless Services (DHS), and the public.

Meeting chapters

Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.

REMARKS

Council Member Diana Ayala's opening remarks on asylum seeker shelter stay limits

Council Member Diana Ayala opens the hearing on the implementation of the administration's 30/60 day rules for asylum seekers in city shelters. She provides context on the city's response to …

0:07:02

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4 min

REMARKS

Council Member Avilés introduces the hearing on 30/60 day shelter limit rules

Council Member Alexa Avilés opens the hearing by welcoming attendees and introducing the topic of examining updates on the implementation of the 30/60 day shelter limit rules. She acknowledges her …

0:11:34

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31 sec

REMARKS

Avilés emphasizes New York City's enduring role as a haven for immigrants

Council Member Avilés reaffirms New York City's longstanding identity as a city of immigrants and emphasizes the need to protect both new arrivals and established immigrant communities. She acknowledges the …

0:12:05

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53 sec

REMARKS

Examination of 30/60 day shelter limit policies and their consequences

Council Member Avilés introduces the main topic of the hearing: examining the effects of the 30/60 day shelter limit policies on new arrivals. She highlights concerns raised by advocates and …

0:12:58

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93 sec

REMARKS

Impact of shelter limit policies on children's education and well-being

Council Member Avilés expresses deep concern about how the 30/60 day shelter limit policies are affecting school-age children. She highlights the negative impacts on children's mental well-being, educational progress, and …

0:14:32

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60 sec

REMARKS

Effects of housing instability on local providers and communities

Council Member Avilés addresses concerns about how housing instability resulting from the shelter limit policies affects local providers and communities. She emphasizes the challenges faced by community-based organizations in maintaining …

0:15:33

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95 sec

REMARKS

Support for the Working Families Tax Credit

Council Member Avilés briefly mentions her support for the Working Families Tax Credit, which aims to support vulnerable children in New York. - Avilés expresses gratitude to Chair Ayala and …

0:17:08

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26 sec

REMARKS

Avilés concludes with acknowledgments and thanks

Council Member Avilés concludes her opening remarks by acknowledging and thanking various staff members who contributed to the hearing. - She thanks committee staff including Nicole Cata, Rebecca Barilla, Carolina …

0:17:36

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27 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Kathryn Kliff, Attorney/Advocate from Legal Aid Society and Coalition For the Homeless, on 30/60 Day Shelter Stay Limits

Kathryn Kliff, representing the Legal Aid Society and Coalition For the Homeless, testified against the city's 30/60 day shelter stay limits for asylum seekers. She argued that these policies are …

0:20:17

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178 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Marie Cruz Perez, Asylum Seeker, on Shelter Experiences and Immigration Challenges

Marie Cruz Perez, an asylum seeker living in a Manhattan shelter, testified about her experiences with multiple shelter relocations, discrimination, and challenges with her immigration case. She expressed fear and …

0:25:05

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4 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Asylum Seeker on Shelter Conditions and Challenges

An asylum seeker, speaking through a Spanish interpreter, describes the challenging conditions and frequent transfers experienced in New York City shelters over the past 11 months. The testimony highlights issues …

0:30:47

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5 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Kelly Gonzales, Member of the Public, on Shelter Evictions and Education Challenges for Asylum Seekers

Kelly Gonzales, a Venezuelan asylum seeker and mother of seven, testifies about the challenges faced by her family due to frequent shelter evictions and its impact on her children's education. …

0:37:25

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7 min

Q&A

Council member inquires about case management for asylum seekers

Council Member Diana Ayala asks the asylum seekers if they have been assigned case managers or social workers in their shelters. The responses, translated through an interpreter, reveal that they …

0:45:02

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4 min

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Introduction and acknowledgment of previous panel

Molly Schaeffer, Director of the NYC Mayor's Office of Asylum Seeker Operations, opens her testimony by acknowledging the previous panel and introducing her colleagues from various city agencies. - Expresses …

0:51:44

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41 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Agency testimony is disrupted by protesters

Council Member Diana Ayala addresses disruptions during a NYC City Council hearing on asylum seeker policies.

0:52:25

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3 min

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Overview of unprecedented asylum seeker influx in NYC

Molly Schaeffer provides an overview of the unprecedented influx of asylum seekers to New York City since April 2022 and the city's response to this situation. - Over 223,000 new …

0:55:39

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52 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

City's efforts to support asylum seekers in achieving their goals

Molly Schaeffer outlines the city's focus on helping asylum seekers achieve their goals and take their next steps in the United States, including strategies for exiting shelter. - Intensive case …

0:56:32

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32 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

New operational changes: Central mail room and school children accommodation

Molly Schaeffer announces two new operational changes to address concerns raised by the council, advocates, and people in their care. - Introduction of a central mail room to serve all …

0:57:04

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47 sec

Q&A

Implementation status of 30-day and 60-day notices for families with children at DHS

Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about the implementation status of 60-day notices for families with children at DHS. A DHS official explains that they are currently working with advocates and …

0:58:27

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94 sec

Q&A

Data on 30-day notices issued by DHS and non-DHS sites

Council Member Diana Ayala inquired previously about the number of 30-day time limit notices issued by DHS in 2024, comparing DHS and non-DHS systems. Molly Schaeffer provides detailed data on …

1:00:02

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47 sec

Q&A

Enhanced casework and services provided to clients receiving 30/60 day notices

Dr. Ted Long provides a detailed explanation of the case management process and enhanced services provided to asylum seekers. He emphasizes the importance of individualized approach and listening to clients' …

1:00:55

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4 min

Q&A

Work authorization application and approval rates

Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about the approval rates for work authorization applications. Molly Schaeffer and Dr. Ted Long provide information on the application process and available data. - 70% …

1:05:43

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61 sec

Q&A

Evaluation of case management efficacy across different shelter sites

Council Member Diana Ayala expresses concern about evaluating the efficacy of case management across different shelter sites. Dr. Ted Long explains the approach to ensuring quality case management and measuring …

1:06:43

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5 min

Q&A

Council Member Avilés questions Dr. Long on trauma-informed policies for asylum seekers

Council Member Alexa Avilés engages in a discussion with Dr. Ted Long about the trauma-informed nature of the city's policy to evict asylum seekers from shelters after 30 or 60 …

1:12:01

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145 sec

Q&A

Clarification on 60-day notice policy changes for DHS shelters

Council Member Diana Ayala seeks clarification on the recent policy changes regarding 60-day notices in DHS shelters. Director Molly Schaeffer explains that the recent announcement was specific to non-DHS 60-day …

1:14:27

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81 sec

Q&A

Evaluation of shelter time limit policy efficacy and case management

Council Member Diana Ayala questions the efficacy of the asylum seeker shelter time limits policy. Director Molly Schaeffer explains the rationale behind the policy and how its effectiveness is being …

1:15:50

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4 min

Q&A

Unintended consequences of shelter time limit policy on street homelessness

Council Member Diana Ayala expresses concern about the unintended consequences of the shelter time limit policy, particularly increased street homelessness. She questions how the policy's success is measured given these …

1:19:56

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3 min

Q&A

Street outreach efforts and encounters with asylum seekers

A DHS official responds to Council Member Ayala's concerns about street homelessness among asylum seekers. The official describes the department's outreach efforts and their observations. - Street outreach teams have …

1:23:44

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76 sec

Q&A

Process for shelter placement through reticketing centers

Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about the communication of rights to asylum seekers and the process of shelter placement through reticketing centers. Officials explain the procedures in place. - Concerns …

1:25:00

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142 sec

Q&A

Data on 30-day and 60-day notices issued in fiscal years 2024 and 2025

Council Member Diana Ayala requests specific data on the number of 30-day and 60-day notices issued in fiscal years 2024 and 2025. Director Molly Schaeffer provides detailed figures for both …

1:27:23

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120 sec

Q&A

Special considerations for young adults (18-22) in the shelter system

Council Member Diana Ayala raises concerns about young adults aged 18-22 in the shelter system, noting that while legally adults, they may need additional support. Officials discuss the special programs …

1:29:24

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128 sec

Q&A

Extensions for 60-day shelter notices and automatic approvals for families

Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about the process of extensions for 60-day shelter notices, particularly for families with children. Director Molly Schaeffer provides information on the policy and available data. …

1:31:32

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93 sec

Q&A

Changes to 60-day shelter stay policy for families with school-aged children

Council Member Avilés questions Director Schaeffer about recent changes to the 60-day shelter stay policy for families with school-aged children. The discussion reveals that the policy change only applies to …

1:33:41

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157 sec

Q&A

Cost savings from shelter time limit notices for asylum seekers

Council Member Avilés inquires about the cost savings generated from issuing time limit notices to asylum seekers in shelters. The administration representatives are unable to provide specific figures during the …

1:36:18

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169 sec

Q&A

Mail access issues and new centralized mail room for shelter residents

Council Member Avilés questions Director Schaeffer about ongoing mail access issues for shelter residents and the plans for a new centralized mail room. The discussion reveals several changes and improvements …

1:39:11

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6 min

Q&A

Staff training on data privacy and handling sensitive information

Council Member Avilés inquires about staff training on data privacy laws and handling sensitive information across various city agencies involved in asylum seeker services. The discussion reveals some details about …

1:45:16

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4 min

Q&A

Security staff training on privacy and concerns about threats to residents

Council Member Avilés raises concerns about security staff training on privacy issues and reports of threats made to residents who file grievances. The discussion highlights the need for better understanding …

1:49:20

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65 sec

Q&A

Grievance procedures for shelter residents

Council Member Avilés inquires about the grievance procedures available to shelter residents, emphasizing the need for clear, accessible, and anonymous reporting methods. The discussion reveals various channels for residents to …

1:50:32

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172 sec

REMARKS

QR code system for food feedback in shelters

Dr. Ted Long explains the implementation of a QR code system for gathering food feedback from shelter residents. This system aims to improve the quality and variety of meals provided …

1:53:25

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30 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Brewer advocates for retaining asylum seekers in New York

Council Member Gale A. Brewer emphasizes the importance of retaining asylum seekers in New York City and State, highlighting the available job opportunities and the potential benefits of integrating these …

1:53:57

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105 sec

Q&A

Discussion on school enrollment and placement for asylum seeker children

Council Member Brewer inquires about school enrollment and placement data for asylum seeker children affected by shelter relocations. Director Schaeffer provides statistics on student enrollment and housing changes. - 7,600 …

1:55:43

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159 sec

Q&A

Discussion on changes to 60-day shelter stay policy

Council Member Brewer inquires about potential changes to the 30/60 day shelter stay policy, while Director Schaeffer discusses recent modifications and efforts to help asylum seekers integrate into New York …

1:58:22

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52 sec

Q&A

Addressing absenteeism among asylum seeker students

Council Member Brewer raises concerns about high absenteeism rates among asylum seeker students in shelters and discusses potential causes and solutions with Director Schaeffer. - Brewer highlights the issue of …

1:59:14

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3 min

Q&A

Holiday support for asylum seeker families

Council Member Brewer inquires about support for asylum seeker families during the holidays, and Director Schaeffer outlines the administration's plans and partnerships to provide holiday-specific assistance. - Director Schaeffer mentions …

2:02:42

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73 sec

Q&A

Impact of shelter moves on children's education and bus service

Council Member Rita C. Joseph inquires about the time it takes for children to receive bus service after being moved to a new shelter location. Molly Schaeffer from the Mayor's …

2:03:58

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43 sec

Q&A

Data on students staying in the same borough after shelter moves

Council Member Rita C. Joseph requests data on how many students remained in the same borough after shelter moves. Molly Schaeffer from the Mayor's Office of Asylum Seeker Operations is …

2:04:41

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58 sec

Q&A

Efforts to keep families with school-age children in the same borough

Dr. Ted Long from NYC Health + Hospitals discusses efforts to keep families with school-age children in the same borough when relocating shelters. He provides data on recent placements and …

2:05:39

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107 sec

Q&A

Absenteeism and school attendance for students in temporary housing

Council Member Rita C. Joseph inquires about absenteeism rates and school attendance for students living in temporary housing. Dr. Ted Long explains the collaboration between shelter sites and Department of …

2:07:27

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49 sec

Q&A

Services and support for older students and high schoolers

Council Member Rita C. Joseph inquires about services and support provided for older students and high schoolers in the care of the asylum seeker program. Molly Schaeffer from the Mayor's …

2:08:18

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49 sec

Q&A

Mail delivery issues for asylum seekers in shelters

Council Member Rita C. Joseph raises concerns about mail delivery for asylum seekers as they move between shelters. Molly Schaeffer from the Mayor's Office of Asylum Seeker Operations outlines recent …

2:09:07

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102 sec

Q&A

Impact of shelter moves on families using Promise NYC childcare vouchers

Council Member Alexa Avilés questions administration officials about the impact of shelter moves on families using Promise NYC childcare vouchers. The officials explain their efforts to keep families close to …

2:10:49

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165 sec

Q&A

Details of case management services provided to asylum seekers

Council Member Avilés inquires about the specifics of case management services provided to asylum seekers. Officials explain the individualized approach to helping asylum seekers make plans for resettlement, including assistance …

2:13:35

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170 sec

Q&A

Coordination with Department of Education for asylum seeker children's education

Officials discuss the coordination between the Department of Education and shelter sites for asylum seeker children's education. They explain the presence of DOE coordinators at sites and the efforts to …

2:16:26

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51 sec

Q&A

Qualitative description of case management services and job placement efforts

Dr. Ted Long provides a detailed explanation of the case management services offered to asylum seekers, emphasizing the individualized approach to addressing barriers and helping people find employment. He discusses …

2:17:17

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5 min

Q&A

Staff training on extenuating circumstances reviews

Officials explain the training process for staff conducting extenuating circumstances reviews. They describe the use of a standardized slide deck and system for interviewing guests, as well as the supervision …

2:22:45

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123 sec

Q&A

Appeal process for extenuating circumstances decisions

Officials describe the appeal process for extenuating circumstances decisions, including multiple ways to appeal and the handling of these appeals. They also discuss data collection on appeals and responses. - …

2:24:51

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162 sec

Q&A

Languages available for shelter limit notices

Officials provide information about the languages in which shelter limit notices are available. They discuss the process of providing these notices and interpreting them for guests. - Notices are available …

2:27:34

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154 sec

Q&A

Common reasons for denials in extenuating circumstances reviews

Officials explain the criteria used in extenuating circumstances reviews, focusing on steps taken by applicants towards independence from the shelter system. They discuss the individualized nature of the review process …

2:30:07

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3 min

Q&A

Exceptions to shelter stay limits for medical procedures and reasonable accommodations

Officials explain the process for requesting exceptions to shelter stay limits for medical reasons and the reasonable accommodation process. They discuss how these requests are evaluated and approved. - Medical …

2:34:06

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3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Christine Quinn, President and CEO of Women in Need (WIN), on NYC Shelter Policies for Asylum Seekers

Christine Quinn, President and CEO of Women in Need (WIN), testified about the negative impacts of NYC's 30/60 day shelter stay limits for asylum seekers. She criticized the policy as …

2:42:32

·

5 min

Q&A

Discussion on implementation of new shelter policy and accommodation requests

Council Member Diana Ayala engages in a Q&A session with Christine Quinn about the implementation of new shelter policies for migrants and asylum seekers. They discuss the timeline for implementing …

2:47:43

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80 sec

Q&A

Discussion on case management practices and discrepancies in shelter services

Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about case management practices in shelters, focusing on requirements, frequency of meetings, and discrepancies in services across different sites. Christine Quinn provides insights into how …

2:49:04

·

123 sec

REMARKS

Challenges of stabilizing asylum seekers within 60 days

Council Members and Christine Quinn discuss the unrealistic expectation of stabilizing asylum seekers within 60 days, given the multiple challenges they face. Quinn emphasizes the insufficient time frame for addressing …

2:51:08

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137 sec

Q&A

Case management requirements and discrepancies in shelter services

Council Member Diana Ayala questions Christine Quinn about case management requirements for shelter providers and discrepancies in services across different sites. Quinn explains the negotiation process for staffing and the …

2:52:47

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-99 sec

Q&A

National Guard visits to migrant shelters and data collection concerns

Christine Quinn reveals that the National Guard is visiting shelters to collect data on migrants, raising concerns about harassment, fear, and data protection. Council Members express alarm at this practice …

2:53:25

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171 sec

REMARKS

Concerns about potential mass deportations and preparedness

Christine Quinn and Council Members discuss concerns about potential mass deportations under a future administration. They emphasize the need for preparation and highlight past successful efforts to protect immigrants. - …

2:56:16

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88 sec

Q&A

Providing information on rights to migrant shelter residents

Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about requirements for posting information on migrant rights in shelters. Christine Quinn confirms they provide this information but is unsure if it's mandatory. - Question …

2:57:45

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99 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Andrew Gounardes, State Senator from New York State Senate, on Working Families Tax Credit

State Senator Andrew Gounardes testified in support of Resolution 41, which calls for the adoption of the New York State Working Families Tax Credit. He highlighted the growing poverty rates …

2:59:28

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3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Claire Salant, Lead Budget and Policy Analyst from NYC Independent Budget Office (IBO)

Claire Salant from the NYC Independent Budget Office (IBO) testified on the city's implementation of 30/60 day exit policies for asylum seekers. She discussed the costs associated with new arrivals, …

3:03:17

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6 min

Q&A

Council Member Ayala questions IBO representatives on budget projections

Council Member Diana Ayala engages in a Q&A session with IBO representatives about budget projections for asylum seeker services. She seeks clarification on the discrepancies between IBO's analysis and the …

3:09:35

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124 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Ayala provides instructions for upcoming panels

Council Member Diana Ayala provides instructions and information about the upcoming panels in the hearing. She emphasizes the time constraints and introduces the next group of speakers. - Announces there …

3:11:42

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103 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Mamadou Diallo, Director of Operations at Afrikana, on behalf of Genaba

Mamadou Diallo, Director of Operations at Afrikana, reads a testimony on behalf of Genaba, an asylum seeker from Guinea. The testimony highlights the challenges faced by asylum seekers in New …

3:13:26

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4 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Tanya from Ecuador on Shelter Conditions and Evictions

Tanya, an undocumented woman from Ecuador, shared her difficult experiences with shelter conditions and frequent moves. She described the stress and health impacts on herself and her children due to …

3:19:27

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3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Velasquez on Shelter System Experiences and Challenges

Velasquez, a single parent with a 6-year-old daughter, shared her experiences with the NYC shelter system over 18 months. She highlighted issues with frequent shelter transfers, lack of proper case …

3:23:01

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7 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Erica from Ecuador on Shelter Experience and Housing Needs

Erica, an immigrant from Ecuador, shares her experience with the shelter system and expresses concerns about her family's living conditions. She highlights the challenges of finding affordable housing and the …

3:31:26

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151 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Airenakhue Bernadette Omoragbon, New York State Policy Manager at African Communities Together

Airenakhue Bernadette Omoragbon, representing African Communities Together (ACT), testified in opposition to Mayor Eric Adams' 30/60 day shelter rule for asylum seekers. She argued that the policy is ineffective, exacerbates …

3:37:53

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3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Abdul Karim Dian, Member of the Public, on Shelter Conditions and Challenges for Asylum Seekers

Abdul Karim Dian, an asylum seeker, testifies about the difficult living conditions his family faces in New York City's temporary shelters. He describes the challenges of frequent shelter moves, lack …

3:41:38

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3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Unidentified French-Speaking Asylum Seeker on Shelter Conditions and Challenges

An unidentified French-speaking asylum seeker from Guinea testified about the difficult conditions in New York City shelters and the challenges faced by immigrants. The speaker described experiences of homelessness, frequent …

3:45:29

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5 min

Q&A

Council member Diana Ayala clarifies shelter policies with asylum seeker

Council Member Diana Ayala engages in a Q&A session with an asylum seeker through an interpreter, addressing concerns about shelter stay limits and reticketing processes. She provides information about housing …

3:51:10

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140 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Edafe Okporo, Executive Director of Refuge America

Edafe Okporo, Executive Director of Refuge America, strongly opposes the 30/60 day shelter limit policies, arguing they undermine New York City's right to shelter laws and harm vulnerable populations, particularly …

3:54:28

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144 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Halema Wali, Founding Co-Director of Afghans for a Better Tomorrow

Halema Wali, representing Afghans for a Better Tomorrow, strongly opposes Mayor Adams' 30/60 day shelter stay limits for asylum seekers. She argues that these policies are inhumane, dangerous, and particularly …

3:56:57

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130 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Rabbi Dr. Barat Ellman, Member of Jews for Racial and Economic Justice

Rabbi Dr. Barat Ellman, representing Jews for Racial and Economic Justice, speaks against the 30/60 day shelter eviction policy for new New Yorkers, citing Jewish traditions of hospitality and care …

3:59:16

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3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Maura Heron, Supervising Attorney of Immigration Intervention Project at Sanctuary for Families

Maura Heron, representing Sanctuary for Families, testified on the impact of shelter time limitations on recent migrants and their asylum cases. She emphasized the challenges faced by survivors of gender-based …

4:02:29

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3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Ecuadorian Asylum Seeker on Shelter Experiences and Concerns

An asylum seeker from Ecuador shares their challenging journey to the United States, including medical emergencies and current shelter situation. The speaker expresses fear about the 60-day shelter eviction policy, …

4:06:50

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3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Unknown Speaker from Venezuela on Asylum Seeker Experience and Shelter Concerns

A Venezuelan asylum seeker shared their difficult journey to the United States and expressed concerns about the 60-day shelter limit. The speaker highlighted the challenges of not having a work …

4:10:58

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4 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Carlos Fernando Rosales, Director of Community Engagement at Citizens Committee For Children of New York (CCC)

Carlos Fernando Rosales, representing the Citizens Committee For Children of New York (CCC), testified on the implementation of the 30/60 day rules for asylum seekers in NYC shelters. He expressed …

4:16:14

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177 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Robin Altman, Supervisor of Asylum Seeker Services at Catholic Charities Community Services

Robin Altman from Catholic Charities Community Services testifies about the negative impacts of the 30/60 day shelter stay limits on asylum seekers, particularly focusing on the effects on children and …

4:19:16

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5 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Jackeline Cruz, Social Work Supervisor at UnLocal, on Pre-60 Day Notices and Their Impact on Immigrant Families

Jackeline Cruz, a social work supervisor at UnLocal, testified about the negative impacts of pre-60 day notices on immigrant families in NYC shelters. She highlighted how these notices create stress, …

4:24:22

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147 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Dr. Linda Tewksbury, Pediatrician, on Health Impacts of 30/60 Day Shelter Rules for Asylum Seekers

Dr. Linda Tewksbury, a pediatrician with 30 years of experience, testifies about the negative health impacts of the 30/60 day shelter rules on asylum seekers in New York City. She …

4:28:47

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5 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Dr. Alan Keller, Physician caring for asylum seekers and refugees

Dr. Alan Keller, a physician with over 30 years of experience caring for asylum seekers and refugees, testifies about the 60-day shelter rule for asylum seekers in New York City. …

4:34:16

·

137 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Jorge Paz Reyes, Community Organizer at Mixteca

Jorge Paz Reyes, a community organizer at Mixteca, testified against the 30/60 day shelter stay limit policy, highlighting its negative impact on providing services to asylum seekers in Sunset Park. …

4:36:39

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116 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Unnamed Venezuelan Immigrant on Shelter Importance and Immigrant Contributions

A Venezuelan immigrant shares their personal story and perspective on immigration, emphasizing the importance of shelters for newcomers and challenging negative stereotypes about immigrants. The speaker, who is currently living …

4:38:47

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4 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Theresa, Mother of Two Daughters, on Challenges Faced by Immigrant Families in Shelters

Theresa, a mother of two daughters, testifies about the difficulties her family faces as immigrants in the shelter system. She expresses gratitude to the United States but highlights several challenges, …

4:42:59

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147 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Lauren Migliaccio, Training and Legal Technical Assistance Director at Immigrant Justice Corps

Lauren Migliaccio from Immigrant Justice Corps provides testimony on the legal implications of the 30/60 day shelter stay rule for asylum seekers. She emphasizes that seeking asylum is a lawful …

4:47:04

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143 sec

Q&A

Council member inquires about resources for migrant information

Council Member Diana Ayala asks about programs or resources that could help migrants navigate the current climate, such as 'know your rights' materials. Lauren Migliaccio responds by mentioning legal fellows …

4:49:29

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43 sec

Q&A

Challenges in language access and communication for migrants

Lauren Migliaccio elaborates on the challenges faced by migrants in accessing and understanding their rights, particularly due to language barriers and housing instability. Council Member Diana Ayala acknowledges the information. …

4:50:12

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41 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Angela Eslava Gonzalez, Paralegal Case Handler at New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG)

Angela Eslava Gonzalez, a paralegal case handler at NYLAG, provides testimony on the challenges faced by immigrants in the shelter system due to the 60-day policy. She highlights issues with …

4:50:56

·

178 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Karim Walker, Organizing and Outreach Specialist from Safety Net Project

Karim Walker, an organizing and outreach specialist with the Safety Net Project, testified against the 30/60 day shelter stay limits for asylum seekers. He shared personal experiences and stories from …

4:53:57

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3 min

REMARKS

Council Member Avilés expresses solidarity and gratitude for testimony on housing issues

Council Member Alexa Avilés responds to testimony on housing issues, expressing strong agreement and solidarity with the speakers. She emphasizes the council's commitment to permanent housing solutions and the use …

4:57:13

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43 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Chandler Miranda, Mutual Aid Worker from Floyd Bennett Field Neighbors

Chandler Miranda, a professor of education and mutual aid worker with Floyd Bennett Field Neighbors, testified about concerns regarding the shelter at Floyd Bennett Field. She urged the committee to …

4:58:31

·

121 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Mariela Costa, CUNY student and mutual aid volunteer, on NYC shelter limits for asylum seekers

Mariela Costa, a CUNY student and mutual aid volunteer, strongly denounces the 30/60 day shelter limit policy for asylum seekers in New York City. She argues that the policy is …

5:00:39

·

159 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Stephanie Cordero, Director of Immigrants' Rights and Advocacy Project at Brooklyn Legal Services

Stephanie Cordero from Brooklyn Legal Services testified about the negative impacts of the 30/60 day shelter stay rule on immigrant families and legal service providers. She shared experiences of clients …

5:04:25

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137 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Carolyn Gleason, Community Member

Carolyn Gleason, a community member, testified about her experiences with asylum-seeking families in her son's school and the challenges they faced due to the 60-day shelter rule. She highlighted the …

5:06:58

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129 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Dr. Shobana Ramasamy, Primary Care Physician from New York Doctors Coalition

Dr. Shobana Ramasamy, representing the New York Doctors Coalition, testified against the 30/60 day shelter stay limits for asylum seekers. She emphasized the importance of stable housing for health and …

5:09:16

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136 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Josanna Vaz, ESL Instructor and Advocate from Fifth Avenue Committee

Josanna Vaz, an ESL instructor and advocate from Fifth Avenue Committee, testified about the challenges faced by asylum seekers due to the 60-day shelter stay limit. She highlighted how this …

5:11:46

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156 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Karin Takahashi, Social Worker from Immigrant Rights and Advocacy Project at Brooklyn Legal Services

Karin Takahashi, a social worker from the Immigrant Rights and Advocacy Project at Brooklyn Legal Services, testified about the negative impacts of the current shelter policy on vulnerable migrant populations, …

5:14:38

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147 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Taina Wagnac, Senior Manager of State & Local Policy at New York Immigration Coalition

Taina Wagnac from the New York Immigration Coalition strongly condemns Mayor Adams' 30/60 day shelter stay limits policy for asylum seekers. She argues that the policy is cruel, poorly implemented, …

5:17:23

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159 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Magdalena Barbosa, Director of Legal Services at Catholic Migration Services

Magdalena Barbosa provided testimony on behalf of Catholic Migration Services, highlighting the negative impacts of the 30/60 day shelter rules on newly arrived immigrants. She emphasized the challenges faced by …

5:20:23

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3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Kat on NYC Shelter Policies and Immigrant Experiences

Kat, a former shelter resident and current volunteer, testifies in support of eliminating the 30/60 day shelter policy for asylum seekers. She shares personal experiences and observations about the challenges …

5:24:13

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147 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Alana Tornello, Representative of Human Services Council

Alana Tornello, representing the Human Services Council, urges New York City to end its 30/60 day shelter limits for new arrivals and instead invest in sustained community-driven human services. She …

5:26:50

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118 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Jenny Spector, Immigration Advocate

Jenny Spector, an immigration advocate and mutual aid organizer, testified against the 60-day shelter stay limit rule and called for its immediate end. She emphasized the need to end the …

5:29:07

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166 sec

REMARKS

Summary of hearing outcome and closing remarks

Council Member Avilés summarized the main conclusion from the hearing and outlined next steps for addressing the issues raised. - Acknowledged that the testimony overwhelmingly indicated the current policy is …

5:32:33

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37 sec

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