AGENCY TESTIMONY
Introduction and background on opioid crisis response
0:12:20
ยท
68 sec
Dr. Rebecca Linn-Walton, Assistant Commissioner for the Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Use at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, introduces herself and the purpose of her testimony. She highlights the ongoing opioid crisis in NYC and the city's goal to reduce overdose deaths by 25% by 2030.
- Emphasizes the crisis as a top priority for the health department
- Mentions collaboration with various city offices and community organizations
- Expresses pride in being part of the efforts to address the crisis
Dr. Rebecca Linn- Walton
0:12:20
Good afternoon, chair Lee, chair Narcisse, and members of the committee.
0:12:23
I'm doctor Rebecca Lynn Walton, assistant commissioner for the Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Use at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, the health department.
0:12:32
On behalf of acting commissioner, doctor Michelle Morse, I thank you for the opportunity to testify today.
0:12:38
I'm pleased to be here and discuss how the health department is utilize utilizing the funds obtained through the litigation efforts and settlements secured from manufacturers and distributors of prescription opioids by both this New York City Law Department and the Office of the New York Attorney.
0:12:54
New York City is still facing a devastating overdose crisis.
0:12:58
Addressing this crisis is at the forefront of the health department's strategic priorities and planning.
0:13:03
A central goal in Healthy NYC, the city's road map for increasing average life expectancy, is to reduce overdose deaths by 25% by 2030.
0:13:13
We work closely with our partners at the mayor's office, the Office of Management and Budget, OMB, Health and Hospitals, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, New York State, and community based organization to make progress toward this goal.
0:13:26
I'm proud to be part of this work.