New York City Council
Committee on Health
Feb 19, 2025
·
10:00 AM
2 hr 27 min
Summary
A hearing on detecting, preventing, and responding to public health emergencies in New York City.
Discussions focused on:
- Improving emergency preparedness
- Addressing recent federal changes affecting public health policy
- Various health issues including bird flu (H5N1), monkeypox, tuberculosis, and childhood vaccination rates
The hearing also covered funding challenges, particularly reduced state funding (Article 6) for NYC public health services and potential changes to federal funding.
Several health-related resolutions were considered, with emphasis on the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP).
Features testimony from the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), state legislators, and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Council Member Schulman opens the hearing and notes attendees
Council Member Lynn Schulman opens the hearing and notes the attendance of several council members. She introduces herself as the chair of the New York City Council's Committee on Health. …
0:00:23
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18 sec
Council Member Schulman outlines the hearing's purpose
Council Member Schulman explains the purpose of the oversight hearing, which is to discuss detecting, preventing, and responding to public health emergencies in New York City. - Thanks attendees for …
0:00:42
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21 sec
Council Member Schulman lists resolutions under consideration
Council Member Schulman outlines the seven resolutions being considered at the hearing, emphasizing their importance for public health in New York City. - Mentions resolutions by council members Chi Osse, …
0:01:03
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23 sec
Council Member Schulman explains pre-considered resolution on Article 6 funding
Council Member Schulman highlights her pre-considered resolution calling for the restoration of state public health law Article 6 funding for New York City, explaining its importance and potential impact. - …
0:01:27
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75 sec
Council Member Schulman discusses recent public health developments
Council Member Schulman outlines recent public health developments and concerns, highlighting the need for vigilance and preparedness in New York City. - Mentions the detection of H5N1 bird flu virus …
0:02:42
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76 sec
Council Member Schulman addresses federal changes impacting public health
Council Member Schulman expresses concern about recent federal changes and their potential impact on public health policies and practices. - Highlights the U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization - …
0:03:59
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108 sec
Council Member Schulman emphasizes importance of local public health efforts
Council Member Schulman underscores the critical role of local and state government officials in promoting public health, particularly in light of federal uncertainty. - Highlights the importance of DOHMH as …
0:05:47
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41 sec
Council Member Schulman concludes with acknowledgments and introduces next speaker
Council Member Schulman concludes her opening remarks with acknowledgments and introduces the next speaker. - Thanks committee staff and her team for their work on the hearing - Praises Dr. …
0:06:28
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36 sec
Council Member Moya addresses public health emergencies and concerns about HHS Secretary
Council Member Francisco P. Moya, chair of the subcommittee on COVID and infectious diseases, delivers opening remarks on the importance of detecting, preventing, and responding to public health emergencies in …
0:07:04
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167 sec
Council Member Cabán discusses Resolution 650-2024 on federal public health advocacy
Council Member Tiffany Cabán addresses Resolution 650-2024, which urges the federal government to continue science-based public health advocacy. She expresses concern over the appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as …
0:10:07
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67 sec
Council Member Crystal Hudson's statement on Resolution 642 regarding CDPAP program
Council Member Lynn Schulman reads a statement on behalf of Council Member Crystal Hudson regarding Resolution 642. The resolution calls for state legislation to create a licensure program for fiscal …
0:11:21
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71 sec
Introduction and opening remarks by Dr. Michelle Morse
Dr. Michelle Morse, acting commissioner of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, introduces herself and her colleague to the committee. She expresses gratitude for the opportunity …
0:13:20
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25 sec
NYC's response to public health emergencies and lessons from COVID-19
Dr. Morse reflects on New York City's experience with public health emergencies, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasizes the health department's long history of crisis response and the unique challenges …
0:13:45
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29 sec
Improving emergency preparedness and prioritizing equity
Dr. Morse outlines the health department's efforts to enhance emergency preparedness while prioritizing equity, based on lessons learned from recent health crises. She describes the development of a strategic blueprint …
0:14:15
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67 sec
Global nature of public health and disease surveillance systems
Dr. Morse emphasizes the global nature of public health challenges and the importance of comprehensive disease surveillance systems. She explains how these systems work to monitor and respond to health …
0:15:22
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58 sec
Reliance on national and global public health infrastructure
Dr. Morse discusses the critical dependence of New York City's public health efforts on national and global public health infrastructure. She emphasizes the importance of timely and accurate information from …
0:16:22
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61 sec
Federal policy changes and potential impacts on funding
Dr. Morse addresses recent federal policy changes and their potential impacts on public health funding for New York City. She outlines the current federal funding situation and the department's approach …
0:17:24
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47 sec
State funding issues and Article 6 reductions
Dr. Morse addresses the challenges posed by reduced state funding, particularly the cuts to Article 6 funding for New York City. She emphasizes the impact of these cuts on public …
0:18:11
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72 sec
Importance of consistent and sustainable funding for public health
Dr. Morse emphasizes the critical need for consistent and sustainable funding sources in public health. She highlights the challenges posed by cyclical funding patterns and the importance of investing in …
0:19:24
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33 sec
Historical context of public health investments
Dr. Morse provides a historical perspective on public health investments in New York City, highlighting how sustained funding has led to significant improvements in life expectancy and overall health outcomes. …
0:19:58
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88 sec
Overview of current public health activities and services
Dr. Morse provides a comprehensive overview of the diverse range of public health activities and services currently offered by the New York City Health Department, showcasing the breadth and impact …
0:21:27
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105 sec
Commitment to data-driven approaches, science, and health equity
Dr. Morse reaffirms the health department's commitment to using data-driven approaches, scientific evidence, and a focus on health equity to guide their work and decision-making processes. - Emphasizes that efforts …
0:23:13
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50 sec
Importance of building trust with the community
Dr. Morse emphasizes the critical importance of building and maintaining trust with the community, drawing parallels between her experience as a physician and the health department's relationship with the public. …
0:24:03
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34 sec
Closing remarks and readiness to answer questions
Dr. Morse concludes her testimony by reaffirming the health department's legacy and expressing gratitude to the committee. She also indicates her readiness to answer questions. - Highlights the health department's …
0:24:38
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12 sec
Defining and declaring public health emergencies in NYC
This chapter discusses how the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) defines and declares public health emergencies. Dr. Michelle Morse explains the role of the Board of Health …
0:24:51
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70 sec
City agencies involved in preparing for public health emergencies
Dr. Michelle Morse discusses the collaboration between various city agencies in preparing for and responding to public health emergencies. She emphasizes the importance of inter-agency relationships and coordination. - DOHMH …
0:26:01
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94 sec
Federal government support and funding for public health emergencies
Dr. Michelle Morse explains the federal government's role in supporting New York City during public health emergencies, focusing on funding and infrastructure support. - During COVID-19, NYC received significant federal …
0:27:36
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101 sec
Concerns about potential changes to vaccination schedules under new HHS Secretary
Dr. Michelle Morse addresses concerns about potential changes to vaccination schedules under the new HHS Secretary, Robert Kennedy Jr. She emphasizes the importance of relying on scientific expertise and evidence-based …
0:29:18
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117 sec
Communication with federal agencies and alternative information sources
Dr. Michelle Morse discusses the challenges in maintaining communication with federal agencies, particularly the CDC, and outlines alternative sources of information for public health guidance. - Communication with the CDC …
0:31:15
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6 min
Impact of U.S. withdrawal from WHO on global disease outbreak surveillance
Dr. Michelle Morse explains the potential consequences of the United States withdrawing from the World Health Organization (WHO) on global disease outbreak surveillance and public health information sharing. - WHO …
0:37:17
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144 sec
Process for developing and distributing next year's flu shot
Dr. Michelle Morse explains the process of developing and distributing the annual flu vaccine, including how the strains are selected and the timeline for vaccination campaigns. - Flu shot composition …
0:39:41
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167 sec
Current statistics and response to bird flu (H5N1) in NYC
Dr. Michelle Morse provides an update on the current situation regarding bird flu (H5N1) in New York City, emphasizing the low risk to the general public and outlining the city's …
0:42:28
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5 min
New strain of MPOX in NYC and available guidance
Dr. Michelle Morse addresses concerns about a new strain of MPOX (monkeypox) in New York City, clarifying the situation and providing information on available resources and guidance for the public. …
0:48:16
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3 min
Tuberculosis control and recent increase in cases
Dr. Michelle Morse discusses the current state of tuberculosis control in New York City, addressing the recent increase in cases and the department's response strategies. - The 2024 Bureau of …
0:52:08
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4 min
Recent suspected Ebola case and DOHMH's response process
Dr. Michelle Morse explains the process and response to a recent suspected Ebola case in New York City, emphasizing the importance of accurate information and the department's readiness to handle …
0:57:07
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3 min
DOHMH's role in detecting and monitoring infectious diseases
Council Member Moya inquires about the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's (DOHMH) role in detecting and monitoring infectious diseases. Dr. Michelle Morse and Sudha Reddy explain the city's robust …
1:00:57
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135 sec
Coordination with other agencies to assess outbreak risks
Council Member Moya asks about how DOHMH's surveillance systems and coordination with other agencies help assess outbreak risks in other locations that may affect New York City. Sudha Reddy explains …
1:03:12
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91 sec
Federal funding and support for public health activities in New York City
Council Member Moya inquires about federal and international support for DOHMH's disease monitoring work. Dr. Michelle Morse explains the critical role of federal funding in supporting New York City's public …
1:04:44
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146 sec
Monitoring and testing requirements for visitors to New York City
Council Member Moya asks about testing requirements for visitors from outbreak hotspots. Dr. Michelle Morse explains the various systems in place for monitoring people coming to New York City. - …
1:07:10
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114 sec
Wastewater surveillance protocols and infectious diseases monitored
Council Member Moya inquires about current wastewater collection and sample testing protocols. Sudha Reddy explains the current practices and plans for wastewater surveillance in New York City. - Samples are …
1:09:04
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110 sec
Current flu season and measures to protect vulnerable New Yorkers
Council Member Moya asks about the current flu season and measures to protect vulnerable New Yorkers. Dr. Michelle Morse explains the current situation and prevention strategies. - The flu season …
1:10:54
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162 sec
Preparation for potential changes to vaccine guidance under new HHS secretary
Council Member Moya inquires about DOHMH's preparation for potential changes to existing vaccine guidance under the new HHS secretary. Dr. Michelle Morse outlines the department's approach to maintaining evidence-based recommendations. …
1:13:36
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107 sec
Current work on childhood vaccination and potential federal changes
Council Member Moya asks about current work on childhood vaccination and immunization schedules in New York City, and how DOHMH plans to respond to potential federal changes. Dr. Michelle Morse …
1:15:23
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177 sec
Impact of potential changes to childhood vaccination schedules and DOHMH efforts to maintain high vaccination rates
Council Member Moya inquires about the potential impact of changes to childhood vaccination schedules on herd immunity and risks to vulnerable populations. Dr. Michelle Morse explains DOHMH's efforts to maintain …
1:18:21
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125 sec
Concerns about immigrant access to vaccines and DOHMH's efforts
Council Member Schulman inquires about DOHMH's efforts to ensure immigrants are not fearful of coming forward for vaccines. Dr. Michelle Morse responds by outlining their collaboration with MOIA and efforts …
1:20:26
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90 sec
DOHMH's fiscal 2026 preliminary budget for public health emergencies
Council Member Schulman inquires about DOHMH's fiscal 2026 preliminary budget for public health emergencies. Dr. Michelle Morse defers the question to an upcoming preliminary budget hearing. - The preliminary budget …
1:22:15
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13 sec
Impact of reduced Article 6 funding on DOHMH
Council Member Schulman inquires about the amount of funding DOHMH has lost since fiscal 2019 due to reduced Article 6 funding. Dr. Michelle Morse provides details on the financial impact …
1:23:17
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81 sec
Potential uses for restored Article 6 funding
Council Member Schulman asks how DOHMH would use restored Article 6 funding. Dr. Michelle Morse outlines several areas where the additional funding would be invested to strengthen public health services …
1:24:37
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79 sec
Acknowledgment of legislative efforts for Article 6 funding restoration
Council Member Schulman acknowledges the legislative efforts to restore Article 6 funding, highlighting key individuals and their contributions to the cause. - Assemblywoman Jessica Gonzalez Rojas introduced the original bill …
1:25:57
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46 sec
Councilmember Narcisse expresses concerns about public health challenges
Councilmember Mercedes Narcisse, a registered nurse, expresses anxiety about the current public health situation and the challenges faced by DOHMH. She acknowledges the difficulty of the task at hand and …
1:26:45
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148 sec
Strategies for building vaccine trust and community outreach
Dr. Michelle Morse discusses strategies for rebuilding trust in vaccines and conducting effective community outreach in the face of misinformation and distrust. - Emphasizes the importance of providing accurate information …
1:29:14
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121 sec
Impact of CDC staff layoffs on DOHMH operations
Dr. Morse reveals recent layoffs of CDC staff assigned to the New York City Health Department and expresses concern about their impact on operations. - Seven CDC staff members working …
1:31:16
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33 sec
Addressing funding challenges and international health cooperation
Councilmember Narcisse and Dr. Morse discuss concerns about funding cuts, the withdrawal from the World Health Organization, and strategies to maintain public health efforts in New York City. - Concerns …
1:31:51
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96 sec
Strategies for addressing health disparities in underserved communities
Dr. Morse outlines DOHMH's approach to addressing health disparities in underserved communities, acknowledging the long-term nature of the challenge. - Emphasis on focusing interventions in communities that have experienced unfair …
1:33:27
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129 sec
Councilmember Narcisse concludes with emphasis on data-driven approaches and self-care
Councilmember Mercedes Narcisse concludes the discussion by emphasizing the importance of data-driven approaches in public health and encouraging self-care for health officials. - Stresses the importance of science and data-driven …
1:35:37
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39 sec
Council Member Marmorato inquires about H5N1 flu and Ebola exposure
Council Member Kristy Marmorato questions Dr. Michelle Morse about the H5N1 flu outbreak's impact on live poultry markets in her district and the suspected Ebola exposure case. Dr. Morse provides …
1:36:20
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3 min
Testimony by Gustavo Rivera, State Senator from New York State Senate, on Public Health Funding and Legislation
State Senator Gustavo Rivera provided testimony on several important public health issues and legislation. He discussed the need to reinstate Article 6 funding for New York City, proposed changes to …
1:43:00
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3 min
Council member offers support for state legislation
Council Member Lynn Schulman expresses willingness to support State Senator Gustavo Rivera's proposed legislation. She offers to discuss offline about potential actions to help, such as writing a letter to …
1:46:43
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14 sec
Testimony by Jose Hernandez on CDPAP and Resolution 642
Jose Hernandez testified in support of Resolution 642 and Senator Rivera's legislation to protect disabled and older New Yorkers who rely on CDPAP services. He expressed concerns about the transition …
1:48:24
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171 sec
Testimony by Bakari Savo, Personal Assistant, on CDPAP Program Changes
Bakari Savo, a personal assistant for Jose Hernandez, testifies in support of Resolution 642 regarding the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP). He expresses concerns about the transition to Public …
1:51:20
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163 sec
Council Member Schulman introduces Anastasia Simosa and comments on CDPAP work
Council Member Lynn Schulman introduces Anastasia Simosa, a former staff member of the city council, and mentions their collaborative work on the CDPAP issue. Schulman expresses her continued support for …
1:54:03
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22 sec
Testimony by Anastasia Somoza, Former City Council Staff Member, on CDPAP and Resolution 642
Anastasia Somoza, a former City Council staff member, testified in support of Resolution 642, which endorses Senator Rivera's legislation to protect disabled and older New Yorkers who rely on the …
1:54:26
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3 min
Testimony by Sasha Guillaume, Owner of Principal Home Care, on CDPAP and Single Fiscal Intermediary Concerns
Sasha Guillaume, owner of Principal Home Care, testifies against the transition to a single fiscal intermediary (FI) for the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP). She argues that this change …
1:58:30
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3 min
Testimony by Leroy Comrie, State Senator from New York State Senate, on CDPAP Program Changes
Senator Leroy Comrie testifies about the potential disaster of proposed changes to the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) in New York. He criticizes the plan to transition to a …
2:02:52
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153 sec
Testimony by Elizabeth Pelanco (via Spanish Interpreter), CDPAP Worker
Elizabeth Pelanco testified about her experience working with the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP), caring for her mother-in-law. She highlighted the program's benefits in allowing her to care for …
2:08:47
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123 sec
Testimony by Justine Tetteh, Director of Policy and Advocacy at Lenox Hill Neighborhood House, on Public Health Emergency Preparedness
Justine Tetteh, representing Lenox Hill Neighborhood House, provided testimony on public health emergency preparedness and response in New York City. She emphasized the importance of improving emergency protocols and supporting …
2:11:02
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3 min
Testimony by Arshell Brooks-Harris, Secretary of the Board of Directors of National Blood Clot Alliance
Arshell Brooks-Harris, Secretary of the Board of Directors for the National Blood Clot Alliance, shared her personal story of losing her daughter to a blood clot and her mission to …
2:14:25
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124 sec
Testimony by Sharon Brown, Member of the Public
Sharon Brown, a member of the public, provided testimony expressing concerns about the current healthcare system and advocating for biblical and holistic approaches to health. She argued that the healthcare …
2:17:17
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145 sec
Testimony by Christopher Leon Johnson, Member of the Public
Christopher Leon Johnson provides a testimony expressing his strong opposition to congestion pricing in New York City. He celebrates recent news suggesting that the congestion pricing plan might not move …
2:19:46
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128 sec
Testimony by Angela Burns, Member of the Public, on CDPAP Program
Angela Burns, a licensed clinical social worker and designated representative for her mother with dementia, testified in support of Resolution 642 regarding the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP). She …
2:22:23
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138 sec
Council Member Schulman clarifies the purpose of the CDPAP resolution
Council Member Lynn Schulman engages in a brief Q&A with Angela Burns about the CDPAP (Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program) resolution. Schulman clarifies that while this is just a resolution …
2:24:41
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22 sec
Council Member Schulman concludes the hearing with closing remarks
Council Member Lynn Schulman delivers closing remarks for the hearing, expressing gratitude and summarizing the accomplishments of the session. She acknowledges the work done and the need for further action. …
2:26:29
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31 sec