REMARKS
Councilmember Sanchez's statement on racial disparities in child welfare and Intro 652
0:16:08
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78 sec
Councilmember Stevens reads a statement from Councilmember Sanchez highlighting racial disparities in the child welfare system and introducing Intro 652. The statement addresses the disproportionate impact of emergency removals on Black and Latino children and families.
- Cites ACLU report showing 54% of emergency removals involve Black children and 36% Latino children
- Introduces Intro 652, which would establish a pilot program for free mental health services for affected families
- Emphasizes the need to support families experiencing trauma in the child welfare system
Althea V. Stevens
0:16:08
Thank you.
0:16:09
At this time, I'm going to read a statement from Councilmember Sanchez regarding her bill.
0:16:14
In a recent report from ACLU shows that across New York City, black children, account for 54%, and Latino children, 36% of emergency removals.
0:16:25
While a 2 2019 analyst found that black and Latino parents are more likely to be subject to a child welfare investigation without being more likely to be found guilty of abuse or neglect.
0:16:36
What is the city doing to stem those alarming racial inequities?
0:16:40
And how are we supporting children and families who experience those this trauma?
0:16:43
While emergency removes can be necessary in some cases, they have a profound and long lasting impact on children and mental health and causes immeasurable stress to their families.
0:16:53
Intro 652 include, would require DOHMH to establish a pilot program for no cost mental health services for affected families and require outreach to ensure the program reaches those who need it most.
0:17:06
Thank you, Chair Stevens, that's me, for hearing this important legislation.
0:17:10
I look forward to today's feedback in terrowing my bill to meet the needs of families that experience this trauma in child welfare system.
0:17:18
And that is from Council Member Sanchez, and I hope she is resting with her feet up while she is preparing to bring the new chicken nugget into the world.
