Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.
REMARKS
Council Member Farah Louis introduces legislation to provide free internet access in NYC shelters
0:58:02
ยท
74 sec
Council Member Farah Louis introduces Intro 1224, a bill that would require the Department of Social Services and all city agencies managing shelters to provide free, high-speed internet access and computers for residents. She emphasizes the importance of internet access for those experiencing homelessness to access vital resources and opportunities.
- The bill aims to address the digital divide for individuals and families in NYC shelters.
- Louis argues that internet access is essential for job applications, education, healthcare, and other vital resources.
- She encourages her colleagues to support the bill to help those in temporary housing regain stability.
Farah Louis
0:58:02
Thank you, madam majority leader.
0:58:04
Today, I'm proud to introduce intro twelve twenty four legislation to address the digital divide for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in New York City.
0:58:14
Intro twelve twenty four, a local law to amend the administrative code of New York City in relation to requiring shelters to provide free internet access.
0:58:23
This bill will mandate that the Department of Social Services and all city agencies that manage shelters in the five boroughs to provide free, high speed internet access and computers for residents.
0:58:35
In today's world, internet access is no longer a luxury, it's essential.
0:58:40
From job applications and education to healthcare and other vital resources, the internet is key to rebuilding lives and unlocking opportunities for those facing hardship.
0:58:50
Yet many of our shelters still lack the basic resource leaving individuals isolated from opportunities that can help them get back on their feet.
0:58:58
Homelessness is already daunting and isolating experience.
0:59:02
We cannot allow a lack of internet access to make it even harder for those in temporary housing to connect with the resources they need most.
0:59:09
I encourage my colleagues to sign on to intro twelve twenty four to ensure that all New Yorkers have an opportunity to regain stability.
0:59:16
Thank you.