Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.
New York City Council
Committee on Mental Health, Disabilities and Addiction
Feb 28, 2025
·
10:00 AM
2 hr 38 min
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Summary
A hearing on two proposed bills:
- Intro 868, which would prohibit mobile syringe service programs from operating within 450 feet of schools and playgrounds
- Intro 1169, which would require syringe service programs to collect and dispose of all syringes distributed
Discussions focused on balancing public safety concerns with access to harm reduction services, addressing syringe litter, and the effectiveness of current programs.
Features testimony from the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), harm reduction organizations, community members, 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 harm reduction and syringe services
Council Member Linda Lee opens the hearing by introducing three pieces of legislation related to syringe service programs and addiction treatment training. She emphasizes the importance of harm reduction strategies …
0:00:44
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3 min
Council Member Oswald Feliz introduces bills on needle exchange programs
Council Member Oswald Feliz presents his views on needle exchange programs and introduces two bills related to their implementation. He acknowledges the life-saving nature of these programs but expresses concerns …
0:04:03
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152 sec
Introduction and role of Rebecca Linn-Walton
Rebecca Linn-Walton introduces herself as the Assistant Commissioner for the Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Use at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. She is testifying …
0:08:39
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27 sec
Current state of the overdose crisis in NYC
Linn-Walton provides an overview of the current overdose crisis in New York City, highlighting recent data and trends. She emphasizes the ongoing public health emergency and the department's strategic goal …
0:09:07
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83 sec
Health inequities in the overdose crisis
Linn-Walton addresses the persistent health inequities in the overdose crisis, highlighting how certain communities and populations are disproportionately affected. She emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities. …
0:10:31
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59 sec
Role and services of Syringe Service Programs
Linn-Walton explains the critical role of Syringe Service Programs (SSPs) in addressing the overdose crisis and reducing the spread of infectious diseases. She details the range of services these programs …
0:11:31
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91 sec
Licensing and regulation of Syringe Exchange Programs
Linn-Walton outlines the process of licensing and regulating Syringe Exchange Programs (SEPs) in New York City. She explains the role of state and city health departments in overseeing these programs. …
0:13:02
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64 sec
Funding for SSPs through opioid settlement funds
Linn-Walton briefly mentions the allocation of opioid settlement funds to support Syringe Service Programs (SSPs) in New York City. - The NYC Health Department will use $4.1 million from opioid …
0:14:07
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12 sec
Syringe litter concerns and city efforts to address them
Linn-Walton addresses the growing concern of syringe litter and outlines the city's efforts to combat this issue. She introduces the Community Syringe Redemption Program as a new initiative to address …
0:14:20
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116 sec
Discussion of proposed legislation Intro 868
Linn-Walton discusses the proposed legislation Intro 868, which would prohibit mobile syringe services within 450 feet of schools and playgrounds. She outlines the department's perspective on this bill. - SSPs …
0:16:16
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50 sec
Discussion of proposed legislation Intro 1169
Linn-Walton outlines the requirements of the proposed legislation Intro 1169, which would mandate SSPs to collect and dispose of all syringes distributed. She expresses concerns about certain aspects of the …
0:17:07
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75 sec
Importance of evidence-based interventions and potential impacts of proposed legislation
Linn-Walton concludes by emphasizing the importance of evidence-based interventions in addressing the overdose crisis and expresses concerns about potential negative impacts of the proposed legislation. - Syringe exchange services are …
0:18:22
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72 sec
Clarification of DOHMH's stance on syringe litter reduction
Council Member Linda Lee seeks clarification on the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's (DOHMH) position regarding syringe litter. Rebecca Linn-Walton confirms that DOHMH supports efforts to eliminate syringe litter …
0:19:37
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61 sec
Potential negative impacts of proposed changes to syringe distribution policies
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the potential negative impacts of proposed changes to syringe distribution policies. Rebecca Linn-Walton explains the concerns raised by syringe service providers. - Requiring participants …
0:20:38
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51 sec
Tracking syringe returns and measuring program effectiveness
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about methods for tracking syringe returns and measuring the effectiveness of syringe service programs (SSPs). Rebecca Linn-Walton explains the challenges and current practices in measuring …
0:21:28
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5 min
Funding for SSPs and cleanup efforts
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the allocation of opioid settlement funds for Syringe Service Programs (SSPs) and cleanup efforts. Rebecca Linn-Walton provides details on the funding distribution. - $4.1 …
0:27:15
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136 sec
Collaboration between city agencies to address syringe litter
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the collaboration between city agencies to address syringe litter in public spaces. Rebecca Linn-Walton explains the inter-agency cooperation efforts. - Multiple agencies are involved, …
0:29:31
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74 sec
Selection of locations for syringe litter cleanup efforts
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about how locations are selected for syringe litter cleanup efforts. Rebecca Linn-Walton explains the process for determining cleanup locations. - Selection is based on a …
0:30:45
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50 sec
Public complaint mechanisms for reporting syringe litter
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the mechanisms available for the public to report syringe litter. Rebecca Linn-Walton explains the process for reporting and addressing syringe litter complaints. - The …
0:31:35
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96 sec
Status update on Local Law 124 and needle syringe buyback pilot program
Council Member Linda Lee requests an update on the status of Local Law 124 and the needle syringe and sharps buyback pilot program. Rebecca Linn-Walton provides information on the program's …
0:33:12
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97 sec
Implementation and evaluation plans for the buyback pilot program
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the implementation and evaluation plans for the needle syringe buyback pilot program. Rebecca Linn-Walton explains the approach to location selection and program flexibility. - …
0:34:49
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56 sec
Community feedback mechanisms for the buyback pilot program
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about mechanisms for incorporating community feedback into the needle syringe buyback pilot program. Rebecca Linn-Walton discusses plans for community engagement and Council Member Lee suggests …
0:35:45
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133 sec
Council Member Feliz's opening remarks on syringe service programs and community impact
Council Member Feliz opens the discussion by acknowledging the lifesaving nature of syringe service programs while expressing concerns about their impact on communities. He emphasizes the need for basic standards …
0:37:59
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143 sec
DOHMH's position on the bill prohibiting syringe distribution near schools and playgrounds
Rebecca Linn-Walton from DOHMH explains the department's opposition to the bill as drafted, citing concerns about the impact on syringe service programs (SSPs) and their ability to respond to community …
0:40:23
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48 sec
Discussion on mobile distribution programs and the nature of 'exchange' vs. distribution
Council Member Feliz and Rebecca Linn-Walton engage in a discussion about the nature of mobile syringe service programs, focusing on whether they truly operate as 'exchange' programs or primarily as …
0:41:10
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138 sec
Clarification on syringe distribution policies and practices
Council Member Feliz seeks to clarify the exact nature of syringe distribution policies, emphasizing the difference between distribution and exchange programs. - Linn-Walton confirms that the programs do not require …
0:43:29
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97 sec
DOHMH's perspective on community syringe litter issues and SSPs
Rebecca Linn-Walton from DOHMH emphasizes the need to separate the community syringe litter issue from the operations of Syringe Service Programs (SSPs). - Linn-Walton argues that the 14 SSPs are …
0:45:06
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61 sec
Information on mobile syringe service programs in New York
Rebecca Linn-Walton provides information about the mobile syringe service programs operating in New York City. - Out of 14 total programs, one is exclusively mobile - There are approximately 20 …
0:46:11
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40 sec
Discussion on the unresolved nature of syringe litter issues
Council Member Feliz and Rebecca Linn-Walton discuss the ongoing nature of syringe litter issues and DOHMH's efforts to address them. - Linn-Walton acknowledges that the problem is not yet resolved …
0:46:51
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87 sec
Debate over implementing standards for needle distribution near schools and playgrounds
Council Member Feliz argues for the implementation of basic standards for needle distribution, particularly near schools and playgrounds. - Feliz emphasizes the need for common-sense standards to prevent needle distribution …
0:48:18
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113 sec
DOHMH's response on community involvement and ongoing efforts to address the opioid crisis
Rebecca Linn-Walton from DOHMH responds to concerns about community involvement and ongoing efforts to address the opioid crisis. - DOHMH emphasizes its approach of contracting with local providers to invest …
0:50:11
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110 sec
Council Member Feliz's criticism of cleanup efforts in specific parks
Council Member Feliz criticizes the cleanup efforts in specific parks, challenging DOHMH's claims of progress. - Feliz cites Saint Mary's Park in the South Bronx and Echo Park in his …
0:52:02
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62 sec
Clarification questions on the 450 feet rule and its potential impact
Council Member Linda Lee asks clarifying questions about DOHMH's opposition to the 450 feet rule and its potential impact on syringe service programs. - Lee seeks to understand if the …
0:53:06
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67 sec
Discussion on potential modifications to the proposed legislation
Council Member Linda Lee suggests exploring potential modifications to the proposed legislation to address concerns raised by both DOHMH and council members. - Lee proposes looking into clarifying the language …
0:54:13
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55 sec
Discussion on expansion of syringe service programs and kiosks
Council Member Marmorato inquires about plans to expand syringe service programs and kiosks. Assistant Commissioner Linn-Walton explains that the kiosk program has already expanded and is part of a layered …
0:55:10
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40 sec
Consultation with council members on program expansion
Council Member Marmorato asks if the department plans to consult with council members before expanding programs in their districts. Assistant Commissioner Linn-Walton confirms that they are already in communication with …
0:55:50
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12 sec
Debate over the 450-foot rule for syringe distribution near schools and playgrounds
Council Member Marmorato expresses strong opposition to allowing syringe distribution within 450 feet of schools and playgrounds, citing concerns for children's safety. Assistant Commissioner Linn-Walton explains that the presence of …
0:56:02
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42 sec
Clarification on syringe exchange program operations near schools
Council Member Marmorato seeks clarification on the specifics of syringe distribution near schools, expressing concern about the practice. Assistant Commissioner Linn-Walton explains the nuances of how syringe service programs operate …
0:56:44
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58 sec
Debate over children's safety and exposure to drug-related activities
Council Member Marmorato expresses deep concern about children's exposure to drug-related activities near schools and parks. Assistant Commissioner Linn-Walton attempts to explain the program's approach to maintaining privacy and dignity …
0:57:42
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34 sec
Request for data supporting syringe exchange programs
Council Member Marmorato demands data and information to support the effectiveness of syringe exchange programs. Assistant Commissioner Linn-Walton offers to provide follow-up information and cites some general research findings. - …
0:58:17
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54 sec
Debate over harm reduction approaches and personal experiences with addiction
Council Member Marmorato challenges the harm reduction approach, advocating for abstinence-based methods and expressing concern about enabling drug use. Assistant Commissioner Linn-Walton responds by sharing personal experiences and explaining the …
0:59:11
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81 sec
Inquiry about housing referrals through syringe exchange programs
Council Member Marmorato asks about housing referrals through syringe exchange programs. Assistant Commissioner Linn-Walton explains that while the programs don't directly provide housing, they do make referrals to various services, …
1:00:32
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39 sec
Council Member Lee questions DOHMH on syringe disposal kiosks in parks
Council Member Linda Lee questions Rebecca Linn-Walton from the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene about syringe disposal kiosks in New York City parks. The discussion covers the current number …
1:01:19
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3 min
Council Member Mealy questions DOHMH on syringe service programs and worker safety
Council Member Darlene Mealy engages in a detailed discussion with Rebecca Linn-Walton from the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) about syringe service programs (SSPs), focusing on their operation, …
1:04:27
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4 min
Council Member Feliz criticizes syringe cleanup efforts and program implementation
Council Member Feliz expresses concern about Parks Department employees being forced to pick up syringes due to what he perceives as inadequate efforts by the Department of Health and service …
1:09:24
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102 sec
Debate over syringe distribution near schools and playgrounds
Council Member Feliz questions Rebecca Linn-Walton from the Department of Health about the appropriateness of distributing syringes near schools and playgrounds. Linn-Walton provides nuanced responses, emphasizing the focus on cleaning …
1:11:07
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139 sec
Council Member Feliz presses for a clear answer on mobile syringe distribution
Council Member Feliz repeatedly asks Rebecca Linn-Walton for a yes or no answer regarding the appropriateness of parking a mobile syringe distribution truck near a children's playground. Linn-Walton provides context-dependent …
1:13:26
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69 sec
Council Member Feliz criticizes Department of Health's position on mobile syringe distribution
Council Member Feliz concludes by interpreting the Department of Health's position as permitting mobile syringe distribution trucks near children's playgrounds. He strongly criticizes this stance as irresponsible and potentially negligent. …
1:14:35
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38 sec
Council Member Marmorato questions DOHMH on syringe distribution practices and park safety
Council Member Kristy Marmorato engages in a heated exchange with Rebecca Linn-Walton from the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene regarding syringe service programs and their impact on community safety. …
1:15:23
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117 sec
Council Member Linda Lee's perspective on syringe service programs and community engagement
Council Member Linda Lee offers her perspective on the complex issue of syringe service programs (SSPs), emphasizing the need for a balanced approach and community engagement. She acknowledges the concerns …
1:17:25
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160 sec
Testimony by Jacob Clary, Harm Reduction Counselor at Housing Works
Jacob Clary, a harm reduction counselor at Housing Works, testified in opposition to Intro 868 and Intro 1169, arguing that these bills are unnecessary and detrimental to the effective operation …
1:23:27
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158 sec
Testimony by Christine Khaikin, Attorney at Legal Action Center
Christine Khaikin, an attorney from the Legal Action Center, testifies in opposition to Intro 868 and Intro 1169, arguing that these bills are overly broad and may lead to unintended …
1:26:13
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143 sec
Testimony by Jasmine Budnella, Director of Drug Policy at VOCAL-NY
Jasmine Budnella, Director of Drug Policy at VOCAL-NY, testifies against two proposed bills (Intro 868 and Intro 1169) that would restrict syringe service programs. She argues these bills would hinder …
1:28:43
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4 min
Testimony by Eliot Thompson, Outreach Coordinator at Alliance LES Harm Reduction Center
Eliot Thompson, Outreach Coordinator at Alliance LES Harm Reduction Center, strongly opposes Intro 868 and Intro 1169, arguing that these bills would increase infections and fatal overdoses in New York …
1:33:27
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3 min
Council Member Linda Lee requests input on bill amendments and outreach partnerships
Council Member Linda Lee addresses the panel, emphasizing the importance of these hearings in gathering information to improve the proposed legislation. She requests suggestions for amendments to the bills and …
1:37:06
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88 sec
Panelists respond to Council Member Lee's questions on outreach and bill amendments
Jasmine Budnella and Jacob Clary respond to Council Member Lee's questions, discussing their outreach programs, partnerships, and concerns about the proposed bills. - Budnella explains VOCAL-NY's peer-delivered syringe exchange program …
1:38:36
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3 min
Council Member Darlene Mealy inquires about ongoing sweeps of homeless encampments
Council Member Darlene Mealy expresses concern and surprise about ongoing sweeps of homeless encampments in New York City. She questions the practice and its impact on outreach efforts and individuals …
1:42:28
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128 sec
Testimony by Keisha Candanito from Friends of Echo Park
Keisha Candanito, representing Friends of Echo Park in The Bronx, speaks in favor of harm reduction services and against the proposed bill. She shares her personal journey from skepticism to …
1:45:34
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3 min
Testimony by Jason Candanito, Member of Friends of Echo Park, on Intro 868
Jason Candanito, a Bronx resident and member of Friends of Echo Park, testified in opposition to Intro 868, which would prohibit mobile syringe service programs near schools and playgrounds. He …
1:49:28
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147 sec
Testimony by Timothy Majoor, CEO of St. Ann's Corner of Harm Reduction, on Intro 868
Timothy Majoor, CEO of St. Ann's Corner of Harm Reduction, strongly opposes Intro 868, which would prohibit syringe services within 450 feet of schools and playgrounds. He argues that the …
1:51:59
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3 min
Testimony by Erachie Brown, Member of Bronx Community Board 5
Erachie Brown, a member of Bronx Community Board 5, testifies against Intro 868, which would prohibit the distribution of syringes by mobile service programs near schools and playgrounds. Brown argues …
1:55:28
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4 min
Testimony by Sharon Brown on Syringe Distribution Programs
Sharon Brown testifies against syringe distribution programs near schools and parks, arguing that they are dangerous for children and promote drug use rather than abstinence. She advocates for biblically-based programs …
2:00:02
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3 min
Council Member Linda Lee thanks previous speakers and comments on their work
Council Member Linda Lee expresses gratitude to the previous speakers for their testimony and for taking time out of their day to attend the hearing. She specifically mentions OnPointe and …
2:03:14
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34 sec
Testimony by Gia Mitcham, New York Policy Associate at Drug Policy Alliance, on Syringe Service Programs
Gia Mitcham, representing the Drug Policy Alliance, testified in opposition to Intros 868 and 1169, arguing that these bills would limit the accessibility and effectiveness of Syringe Service Programs (SSPs) …
2:04:14
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149 sec
Testimony by Senator Gustavo Rivera from New York State Senate on Syringe Service Programs and Harm Reduction
Senator Gustavo Rivera testifies against proposed legislation that would restrict syringe service programs (SSPs) near schools and playgrounds. He emphasizes that addiction is a medical problem, not a moral failing, …
2:07:17
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8 min
Discussion on oversight of opioid settlement funds
Council Member Linda Lee informs Senator Gustavo Rivera about a recent oversight hearing on the allocation of opioid settlement funds. She emphasizes the importance of ensuring the funds are directed …
2:15:20
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42 sec
Testimony by Richardson Benjamin, PTA President of P.S. 28 Mount Hope on Needle Safety Near Schools
Richardson Benjamin, PTA President of P.S. 28 Mount Hope, testifies in support of proposed bills to address the issue of needles found near schools. He emphasizes the long-standing problem of …
2:16:12
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85 sec
Council Member Lee inquires about partnerships to address needle issues near schools
Council Member Linda Lee asks a follow-up question to Richardson Benjamin, the PTA president of P.S. 28 Mount Hope, about partnerships with groups working on the needle issue and the …
2:17:40
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59 sec
Testimony by Gregory Bunt, Former President of New York Society of Addiction Medicine, on Resolution 317
Gregory Bunt, former president of the New York Society of Addiction Medicine, testified on Resolution 317, which calls for mandating basic addiction treatment training in medical schools receiving state funding. …
2:18:56
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7 min
Testimony by Desiree Bell, Member of the Public, on Syringe Service Programs and Accountability
Desiree Bell, a youth attending her first legislative hearing, testifies in support of Council Member Oswald Feliz's efforts to increase accountability for syringe service programs. She emphasizes the need for …
2:26:53
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3 min
Testimony by Walter Bell, Member of the Public
Walter Bell, a member of the public, testifies in support of the proposed bill to prohibit syringe distribution near schools. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a good quality of …
2:31:06
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3 min
Testimony by Jason Beltre, Director of Community Initiatives and Impact at OnPoint NYC
Jason Beltre, representing OnPoint NYC, testifies in opposition to Intros 868 and 1169. He highlights the essential services provided by their mobile teams and overdose prevention centers, including syringe collection, …
2:34:45
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131 sec