Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.
New York City Council
Committee on Finance
May 23, 2025
·
10:00 AM
6 hr 43 min
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Summary
A hearing on the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's FY 2026 executive budget of $2.3 billion, representing 2% of the city's total budget.
Discussions focused on:
- Potential federal funding cuts
- New allocations for programs like STI testing and tuberculosis management
- Calls for increased funding in areas such as school-based health centers, maternal health, animal welfare, and mental health services
Key topics included strategies to reduce black maternal mortality, expand overdose prevention services, and implement the Healthy NYC program to increase life expectancy.
Features testimony from the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) officials and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Council Member Justin Brannan's opening remarks for DOHMH budget hearing
Council Member Justin Brannan opens the FY 2026 executive budget hearing for the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH). He provides context for the hearing, including budget figures, key …
0:00:41
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3 min
Council Member Linda Lee provides opening remarks on DOHMH's FY 2026 budget
Council Member Linda Lee offers brief opening remarks for the hearing on the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's (DOHMH) fiscal year 2026 executive budget. She highlights the total budget …
0:03:45
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79 sec
Introduction and context of DOHMH budget hearing
Dr. Michelle Morse, Acting Commissioner of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, introduces herself and key personnel present for the hearing on the department's executive budget …
0:06:12
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27 sec
Federal funding cuts and their impact on public health and mental health services
Dr. Morse details recent federal policy decisions that have led to significant cuts in public health and mental health funding, affecting both city and state-level programs. She outlines the potential …
0:06:39
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3 min
State-level investments in mental health programs
Despite federal funding uncertainties, Dr. Morse highlights several significant investments in mental health programming at the state level, demonstrating continued support for critical services. - $1.5 million allocated to expand …
0:09:50
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35 sec
City-level mental health programming in the executive budget
Dr. Morse outlines key mental health programs that have been preserved and funded in the mayor's executive budget, ensuring the continuation of critical services for New York City residents. - …
0:10:26
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92 sec
DOHMH mental health initiatives and approach
Dr. Morse details the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's comprehensive approach to mental health care, emphasizing community-driven interventions, peer support, and addressing underlying causes of mental …
0:11:58
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166 sec
Challenges and commitment to mental health care in New York City
Dr. Morse concludes by addressing the current challenges in public and mental health, reaffirming the department's commitment to providing comprehensive, community-driven mental health care for all New Yorkers. - Acknowledgment …
0:14:45
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40 sec
Council Member Brannan questions DOHMH on justice involved supportive housing
Council Member Justin Brannan engages in a Q&A session with DOHMH officials, primarily focusing on justice involved supportive housing (JISH) and transitional supportive housing. The discussion covers funding allocation, unit …
0:15:26
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3 min
Council Member Brannan questions DOHMH on mental health programs and supportive housing
Council Member Justin Brannan engages in a Q&A session with DOHMH representatives, focusing on mental health programs and supportive housing initiatives. The discussion covers the closure and reopening of transitional …
0:19:01
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114 sec
Council Member Brannan and Acting Commissioner Morse discuss potential federal funding cuts
Council Member Justin Brannan inquires about the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's preparations for potential federal funding cuts, particularly from Washington. Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse responds by detailing the …
0:21:02
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4 min
Council Member Brannan questions DOHMH on supportive housing funding allocation
Council Member Justin Brannan inquires about the allocation of $50 million in state budget funding for supportive housing, particularly focusing on the Justice Involved Supportive Housing (JISH) program and the …
0:25:32
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169 sec
Council Member Brannan questions DOHMH on contract management and payment processes
Council Member Justin Brannan questions DOHMH officials about the management of health and mental health contracts, focusing on payment delays and contract approval processes. Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse and CFO …
0:28:21
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3 min
Council Member Lee inquires about contract advance percentages for providers
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the standard percentage of advance for contracts with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. CFO Aaron Anderson explains that the advance percentage has …
0:32:06
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34 sec
Council Member Lee and Commissioner Morse discuss mental health funding and potential federal cuts
Council Member Linda Lee expresses appreciation for the focus on mental health programs and raises concerns about potential federal funding cuts. Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse responds, discussing the budget breakdown …
0:32:39
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4 min
Council Member Lee questions DOHMH on 988 crisis hotline program budget and effectiveness
Council Member Linda Lee engages in a Q&A session with DOHMH representatives about the 988 mental health crisis hotline program. The discussion covers the program's budget, response rates, awareness issues, …
0:37:25
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3 min
Overview of mobile treatment teams and DOHMH funding
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the funding and number of mobile treatment teams operated by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH). Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse provides information …
0:40:58
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112 sec
Composition and staffing of various mobile treatment teams
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the specific staffing and composition of different mobile treatment teams. DOHMH representatives provide detailed information on ACT, IMT, and FACT teams. - ACT teams …
0:42:51
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3 min
Wait times and referral process for mobile treatment services
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about wait times and the referral process for various mobile treatment services. DOHMH representatives explain the process and timelines for different teams. - ACT teams …
0:46:14
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123 sec
Single Point of Access (SPOA) assessment process
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the Single Point of Access (SPOA) assessment process for mental health services. DOHMH representatives explain the system's operation and staffing. - SPOA is a …
0:48:17
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129 sec
Potential expansion of mobile treatment teams
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the potential for expanding mobile treatment teams. DOHMH representatives discuss current plans and coordination with state agencies. - DOHMH is in conversation with the …
0:50:29
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40 sec
Coordination between city and state on mental health programs
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the coordination between city and state agencies on mental health programs. DOHMH representatives describe their collaborative relationship with state counterparts. - DOHMH reports having …
0:51:10
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54 sec
Discussion on DOHMH's role in involuntary hospitalizations
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's role in involuntary hospitalizations for individuals with mental illness. DOHMH officials explain their involvement in the assessment …
0:52:07
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6 min
Discussion on housing needs for individuals with severe mental illness
Council Member Linda Lee and DOHMH officials discuss the critical role of housing in addressing mental health issues and the current state of supportive housing in New York City. They …
0:58:54
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157 sec
Discussion on Co-Response Teams (CRTs) program details and funding
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the Co-Response Teams (CRTs) program, which is a collaboration between DOHMH and NYPD. The discussion covers the program's structure, budget, and coverage across New …
1:01:32
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3 min
Data collection and sharing for Co-Response Teams (CRTs)
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about how data is collected and shared for the Co-Response Teams (CRTs) program. The discussion reveals the data management practices between DOHMH and NYPD. - …
1:04:36
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69 sec
Training for Co-Response Teams (CRTs) members
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the training provided to members of the Co-Response Teams (CRTs). The discussion briefly covers the type of training received by CRT members. - All …
1:05:45
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30 sec
Comparison of different mental health response programs in NYC
Council Member Linda Lee requests a comparison of various mental health response programs in New York City, including those with and without police involvement. DOHMH representatives provide a detailed explanation …
1:06:17
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4 min
Council Member Cabán questions DOHMH on mental health peers and involuntary hospitalizations
Council Member Tiffany Cabán engages in a Q&A session with Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse, focusing on the use of mental health peers in DOHMH programs and the approach to involuntary …
1:11:01
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3 min
Council member Brewer discusses CRT and hospital choice issues
Council Member Gale A. Brewer shares her recent experience with the Coordinated Response Team (CRT) and raises concerns about a new fire department regulation that requires individuals to go to …
1:14:56
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82 sec
Discussion on the Support and Connection Center in East Harlem and potential expansion
Council Member Brewer inquires about the Support and Connection Center in East Harlem, praising its effectiveness and asking about potential expansion to other areas like The Bronx. The discussion reveals …
1:16:18
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148 sec
Council member Brewer inquires about mental health clubhouses funding and expansion
Council Member Brewer inquires about the funding and status of mental health clubhouses, particularly focusing on smaller clubhouses. Acting Commissioner Morse provides information on the current state of clubhouse funding …
1:18:46
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78 sec
Discussion on school-based mental health programs funding and outcomes
Council Member Brewer inquires about the funding, implementation, and outcomes of school-based mental health programs. Acting Commissioner Morse provides information on the current state of these programs and their collaboration …
1:20:05
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109 sec
Council Member Yusef Salaam questions DOHMH on new Harlem lab and public health programs
Council Member Yusef Salaam questions DOHMH Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse and CFO Aaron Anderson about the new public health laboratory in Harlem, its opening timeline, employment opportunities, and community engagement. …
1:21:59
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3 min
Council member inquires about TRC funding and expansion plans
Council Member Farah N. Louis inquires about the plans for Trauma Recovery Centers (TRCs) given the restored funding of $4.8 million in FY 2026. She asks about potential expansion to …
1:25:47
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3 min
Clarification sought on $5 million crisis response funding allocation
Council Member Farah N. Louis seeks clarification on the $5 million allocated for crisis response in FY 2026, as mentioned in the DOHMH testimony. The discussion reveals some confusion about …
1:28:54
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87 sec
Concerns raised about equity and effectiveness of co-response teams
Council Member Farah N. Louis raises concerns about the equity and effectiveness of co-response teams, particularly in her district. She highlights issues with long wait times and the need to …
1:30:22
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56 sec
Council Member Restler questions DOHMH on 988 crisis hotline funding
Council Member Lincoln Restler engages in a tense exchange with Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse regarding funding for the 988 mental health crisis hotline. Restler repeatedly asks about budget cuts and …
1:31:24
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3 min
Council Member Hudson inquires about gun violence prevention and black maternal mortality
Council Member Crystal Hudson engages in a Q&A session with Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse, focusing on the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's involvement in gun violence prevention and efforts …
1:34:43
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4 min
Council member inquires about syringe exchange programs and litter issues
Council Member Oswald Feliz raises concerns about syringe exchange programs and the problem of syringe litter in his district. He acknowledges the importance of these programs but emphasizes the need …
1:39:32
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94 sec
Discussion on the implementation of the community syringe redemption program
Health department officials provide details about the recently launched community syringe redemption program and the broader context of syringe services in New York City. - The program collected over 20,000 …
1:41:06
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118 sec
Inquiry into funding and expansion of syringe-related programs
Council Member Oswald Feliz inquires about the funding needed to expand the syringe redemption program and increase its accessibility. Health department officials provide information on the current state of various …
1:43:05
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166 sec
Council member inquires about Single Point of Access system and mobile treatment teams funding
Council Member Tiffany Cabán questions DOHMH representatives about the $47.3 million investment in the Single Point of Access (SPOA) system and mobile treatment teams. The discussion covers the breakdown of …
1:46:12
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159 sec
Council member probes differences between police-initiated and clinician-initiated involuntary transports
Council Member Tiffany Cabán questions DOHMH representatives about the differences between police-initiated and clinician-initiated involuntary transports, focusing on data collection, outcomes, and use of force rates. - Data shows a …
1:48:53
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5 min
Council Member Linda Lee questions DOHMH on mental health programs and school-based services
Council Member Linda Lee engages in a detailed Q&A session with officials from the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, focusing on various mental health initiatives, school-based mental health services, …
1:53:59
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9 min
Council Member Brannan's opening remarks on DOHMH budget hearing
Council Member Justin Brannan opens the second half of the hearing on the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's FY 2026 executive budget. He provides an overview of the budget …
2:25:09
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119 sec
Council Member Lynn Schulman's opening remarks on DOHMH's FY 2026 executive budget hearing
Council Member Lynn Schulman, chair of the NYC Council's Committee on Health, delivers opening remarks for the fiscal year 2026 executive budget hearing for the Department of Health and Mental …
2:27:13
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149 sec
Introduction and context of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's testimony
Dr. Michelle Morse, acting commissioner of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, introduces herself and her team to the City Council committees. She sets the context …
2:30:42
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34 sec
Federal funding challenges and their impact on public health
Dr. Morse details the recent federal public health funding cuts and their potential impact on the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. She discusses the legal challenges to these cuts …
2:31:17
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128 sec
Public health initiatives and commitment to health equity
Dr. Morse outlines the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's ongoing public health initiatives, emphasizing their data-driven approach and commitment to health equity. She highlights various programs and their impact …
2:33:25
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156 sec
State budget implications and funding inequities
Dr. Morse discusses the implications of the state budget on public health funding in New York City. She highlights positive initiatives but also points out ongoing funding inequities, particularly regarding …
2:36:01
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126 sec
New York City executive budget allocations for health programs
Dr. Morse outlines the key allocations in the New York City executive budget for fiscal year 2026, highlighting new funding for critical health programs and the continuation of existing initiatives. …
2:38:07
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41 sec
Conclusion and commitment to public health leadership
Dr. Morse concludes her testimony by reaffirming the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's commitment to serving New Yorkers and leading in public health nationally. - Acknowledgment of the volatile …
2:38:49
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12 sec
Council Member Brannan questions DOHMH on budget and funding sources
Council Member Justin Brannan inquires about the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's budget, focusing on city tax levy funded services and potential federal funding reductions. Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse …
2:39:01
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102 sec
Council Member Brannan questions DOHMH on school-based health centers funding and distribution
Council Member Justin Brannan engages in a Q&A session with DOHMH Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse and CFO Aaron Anderson regarding school-based health centers. They discuss funding, distribution across boroughs, and …
2:40:47
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173 sec
Council Member Brannan questions DOHMH on disease prevention funding and recent outbreaks
Council Member Justin Brannan engages in a Q&A session with Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse and CFO Aaron Anderson of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene regarding funding for disease …
2:43:43
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3 min
Council Member Brannan inquires about mobile eye care pilot program funding and implementation
Council Member Justin Brannan asks for an update on the funding and vendor selection for the mobile eye care pilot program he had previously advocated for. Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse …
2:47:36
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58 sec
Council Member Brannan questions DOHMH on trap-neuter-return programs and animal welfare initiatives
Council Member Justin Brannan engages in a Q&A session with DOHMH officials, primarily focusing on trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs, spay and neuter services, and broader animal welfare initiatives in New York …
2:48:36
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3 min
Council Member Brannan questions DOHMH on animal welfare and spay/neuter services
Council Member Justin Brannan engages in a Q&A session with Deputy Commissioner Corinne Schiff about the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's approach to animal welfare in New York City, …
2:51:50
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174 sec
Council Member Schulman questions DOHMH on animal welfare initiatives
Council Member Lynn Schulman engages in a Q&A session with DOHMH officials, focusing on animal welfare initiatives, particularly the proposed $1.5 million TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) program and the administration of the …
2:54:46
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115 sec
Council Member Schulman inquires about diabetes management programs and guaranteed income initiatives
Council Member Lynn Schulman asks about the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's plans for diabetes management, particularly regarding a proposed pilot glucometer distribution program. Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse responds, …
2:56:42
•
3 min
Discussion on guaranteed income programs and poverty in New York City
Council Member Lynn Schulman and Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse discuss the potential for guaranteed income programs to address poverty and health outcomes in New York City. They touch on conversations …
3:00:38
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70 sec
Council Member Schulman questions DOHMH on HIV/AIDS funding and programs
Council Member Lynn Schulman inquires about the status of HIV/AIDS funding and programs, including potential federal funding cuts, contract reductions for community-based organizations, and the expansion of HASA eligibility. DOHMH …
3:01:51
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5 min
Council Member Schulman questions DOHMH on tuberculosis funding and cases
Council Member Lynn Schulman engages in a Q&A session with Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse about tuberculosis funding, testing sites, and current statistics in New York City. They discuss the allocation …
3:07:00
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3 min
Council member inquires about vaccination rates and DOHMH's concerns
Council Member Lynn Schulman asks about DOHMH's concerns regarding vaccination rates in New York City. Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse responds, discussing trends in childhood and adult vaccination rates since the …
3:10:43
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97 sec
Council member questions health officials on COVID vaccine availability and funding
Council Member Lynn Schulman engages in a discussion with health department officials about recent changes to COVID-19 vaccine recommendations and their potential impact on vaccine availability and funding. The conversation …
3:12:20
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4 min
Council Member Schulman questions DOHMH on vaccine programs and potential federal funding cuts
Council Member Lynn Schulman engages in a Q&A session with DOHMH officials, primarily Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse, about vaccine-related programs and concerns over potential federal funding cuts. The discussion covers …
3:16:40
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126 sec
Overview and progress of the Healthy NYC program
Council Member Lynn Schulman inquires about the Healthy NYC program, which aims to increase the city's life expectancy to 83 by 2030. Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse provides an update on …
3:18:46
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99 sec
Areas of improvement in the Healthy NYC program
Council Member Schulman inquires about the areas showing the most improvement in the Healthy NYC program. Commissioner Morse identifies COVID-related mortality as the area with the most significant progress. - …
3:20:25
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27 sec
Executive plan's approach to addressing drivers of mortality in NYC
Council Member Schulman inquires about how the executive plan addresses various drivers of mortality in New York City. Commissioner Morse provides a detailed response covering multiple health issues and initiatives. …
3:20:53
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3 min
Council member Schulman questions DOHMH on Groceries to Go program funding and implementation
Council Member Lynn Schulman inquires about the Groceries to Go program, discussing its $10 million funding allocation, eligibility criteria, and implementation details with DOHMH Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse and CFO …
3:24:16
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118 sec
Council Member Lynn Schulman questions DOHMH on maternal health program funding
Council Member Lynn Schulman inquires about the budget for maternal health programs in fiscal year 2026, comparing it to the previous year and discussing the council's request for additional funding. …
3:26:13
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3 min
Council Member Schulman questions DOHMH on school nurse funding and allocation
Council Member Lynn Schulman engages in a Q&A session with DOHMH Acting Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse and CFO Aaron Anderson regarding school health nurses. The discussion covers the budget for …
3:29:59
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168 sec
Council Member Schulman questions DOHMH on MPox (monkeypox) cases and response
Council Member Lynn Schulman engages in a Q&A session with DOHMH officials, including Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse and Deputy Commissioner Dr. Celia Quinn, about the current state of MPox (monkeypox) …
3:32:47
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138 sec
Council Member Schulman inquires about mobile food vending inspections funding
Council Member Lynn Schulman questions Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse about a one-time city funding of $2,800,000 for food vending inspections in fiscal year 2026. Morse explains that this funding replaces …
3:35:06
•
72 sec
Council Member Schulman questions DOHMH on sexual health clinic funding and staffing
Council Member Lynn Schulman inquires about the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's funding and staffing for sexual health clinics, including new allocations, hiring plans, and potential federal funding cuts. …
3:36:18
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110 sec
Council Member Brewer questions health officials on animal welfare, daycare inspections, and healthcare for asylum seekers
Council Member Gale A. Brewer engages in a Q&A session with health department officials, covering topics such as animal welfare programs in NYCHA housing, daycare inspections, and healthcare access for …
3:38:16
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7 min
Council Member Schulman questions Acting Commissioner Morse on federal budget cut impacts
Council Member Lynn Schulman inquires about the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's analysis of proposed federal budget cuts, particularly those passed by the House of Representatives. Acting Commissioner Michelle …
3:45:55
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127 sec
Testimony by Member from LifeLink's Clubhouse at Elmhurst Hospital on Importance of Clubhouse Funding
A member of LifeLink's Clubhouse at Elmhurst Hospital testifies about the importance of continued funding for clubhouses in supporting mental health recovery. The speaker emphasizes that the clubhouse model meets …
4:06:58
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105 sec
Testimony by Charles DiSan Pedro Junior, Member of TOP Clubhouse
Charles DiSan Pedro Junior, a member of TOP Clubhouse for six years, testifies about the importance of the clubhouse in his life and requests that funding be baselined to ensure …
4:08:47
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76 sec
Testimony by Winn Periyasami, Director of External Affairs at Goddard Riverside, on Community-Based Clubhouse Funding
Winn Periyasami from Goddard Riverside testifies to request $3,250,000 in baseline funding for smaller community-based clubhouses starting in FY 2026. He emphasizes the importance of these clubhouses as essential mental …
4:10:08
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125 sec
Testimony by Ryan Manganelli, Senior Manager of Policy at 32BJ Health Fund
Ryan Manganelli from 32BJ Health Fund testified about the rising healthcare costs in New York City, particularly focusing on hospital prices. He urged the city council to address this issue …
4:13:16
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106 sec
Testimony by Denise Miesas, Substance Abuse Prevention and Intervention Specialists Chairperson of Local 372
Denise Miesas, representing Local 372, requests $2 million in funding for the Substance Abuse Prevention and Intervention Specialists (SAPS) program in New York City schools. She emphasizes the importance of …
4:15:07
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124 sec
Testimony by Carmen De Leon, President of Local 768 DC 37
Carmen De Leon, President of Local 768 DC 37, addresses concerns about recent federal funding cuts and their impact on various health programs. She highlights issues of recruitment, retention, and …
4:17:14
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125 sec
Testimony by David Appel, Director of School Health Program at Einstein College of Medicine and Children's Hospital Montefiore
David Appel, a professor emeritus and founder of the Montefiore School Health Program, urges the city council to increase funding for school-based health centers. He requests an $18 million increase …
4:19:56
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137 sec
Testimony by Paula Magnus, Deputy Director of Northside Center for Child Development
Paula Magnus, Deputy Director of Northside Center for Child Development, testified on the value of DOHMH and its support for their behavioral health clinic serving over 4,000 children and families …
4:22:19
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125 sec
Testimony by Alice Bufkin, Associate Executive Director of Policy at Citizens Committee for Children
Alice Bufkin from Citizens Committee for Children testified on the importance of supporting mental health services for children and adolescents in New York City. She focused on the need for …
4:24:28
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113 sec
Testimony by Kimberly George, President and CEO of Project Guardianship, on Guardianship and Mental Health Crisis in New York City
Kimberly George, President and CEO of Project Guardianship, testified about the critical role of guardianship in addressing mental health crises in New York City, particularly for older adults and individuals …
4:27:26
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129 sec
Testimony by Martha Neighbors, Executive Vice President of Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden
Martha Neighbors from Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden testifies in support of a new $1 million initiative called "Rooted in Accessibility" to enhance access for disabled New Yorkers …
4:29:42
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135 sec
Testimony by Wendy Stark, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Greater New York
Wendy Stark, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Greater New York (PPGNY), addressed the NYC City Council to request $2,500,000 in additional funding due to the critical state of …
4:32:01
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100 sec
Testimony by Laura Jean Hawkins, Advisory Board Chair of Astoria Queens Sharing and Caring Inc.
Laura Jean Hawkins, representing Astoria Queens Sharing and Caring Inc., testifies about the increasing demand for cancer support services and requests increased funding for the Cancer Services Initiative. She highlights …
4:33:46
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116 sec
Testimony by Rosa Sarmiento, Program Director of Astoria Queens Sharing and Caring Inc.
Rosa Sarmiento, representing Astoria Queens Sharing and Caring Inc., testified to request $200,000 in funding under the Cancer Service Initiative. She highlighted her role in assisting Spanish-speaking cancer survivors and …
4:35:48
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108 sec
Testimony by Sarah Fajardo, Senior Director of Community Engagement and Advocacy at Korean American Family Service Center
Sarah Fajardo from the Korean American Family Service Center testifies about the importance of culturally competent mental health services for immigrant survivors of gender-based violence, particularly in Asian American communities. …
4:38:33
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135 sec
Testimony by Daphne Thammasila, Associate Director of Programs at Asian American Federation
Daphne Thammasila from the Asian American Federation testified about the mental health challenges faced by Asian New Yorkers and requested funding for initiatives to address these issues. She emphasized the …
4:41:11
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128 sec
Testimony by Miral Abbas, Health Partnerships Coordinator at Coalition for Asian American Children and Families
Miral Abbas from the Coalition for Asian American Children and Families (CACF) urges the council to increase funding for the Access Health NYC initiative to $4,500,000 in the FY 2026 …
4:43:27
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129 sec
Testimony by Sherry Chen, Health Policy Coordinator at Coalition for Asian American Children and Families, on FY 2026 Budget Priorities
Sherry Chen, representing the Coalition for Asian American Children and Families (CACF), urged the New York City Council to increase funding for various health initiatives in the FY 2026 budget, …
4:45:40
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123 sec
Testimony by Fiodhna O'Grady, Director of Government Relations at Samaritans of New York
Fiodhna O'Grady, representing Samaritans of New York, testified before the NYC City Council to request funding restoration and enhancement for their suicide prevention hotline. She emphasized the critical need for …
4:48:28
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144 sec
Testimony by Diedre De Leo, Director of Behavioral Health Programs at VNS Health
Diedre De Leo from VNS Health testified about their behavioral health programs and highlighted two initiatives funded by discretionary funding. She requested continued support for these programs to expand their …
4:50:55
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126 sec
Testimony by Anita Kwok, Policy Analyst at United Neighborhood Houses on Mental Health Budget Priorities
Anita Kwok from United Neighborhood Houses testified on budget priorities for mental health programs, focusing on the Older Adults Mental Health Initiative and small clubhouses. She urged for full funding …
4:53:02
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128 sec
Testimony by Bridget Callahan, Vice President of Intensive Mobile Treatment Programs at Institute of Community Living
Bridget Callahan from the Institute of Community Living (ICL) testifies on the urgent need to address the mental health crisis in New York City. She emphasizes the effectiveness of ICL's …
4:55:13
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113 sec
Testimony by Michelle Villagomez, Senior Director of Municipal Affairs at ASPCA
Michelle Villagomez from ASPCA testifies in support of the council's FY 2026 budget proposals for a citywide trap-neuter-return (TNR) initiative and a pilot pet food bank. She emphasizes the importance …
5:00:11
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119 sec
Testimony by Sally Taylor, President of Voters for Animal Rights
Sally Taylor, President of Voters for Animal Rights, testified in support of proposed funding for animal welfare initiatives in New York City. She emphasized the importance of the $1.5 million …
5:02:12
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116 sec
Testimony by Maddy Samaddar Johnson, Founder of Park Slope Cats, on Animal Welfare Crisis in New York City
Maddy Samaddar Johnson, founder of Park Slope Cats, testified about the urgent animal welfare crisis in New York City, particularly focusing on the cat population. She emphasized the need for …
5:04:13
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179 sec
Testimony by Sonja Chai, Managing Director of Brooklyn Bridge Animal Welfare Coalition, on NYC's Homeless Cat Population Crisis
Sonja Chai, Managing Director of Brooklyn Bridge Animal Welfare Coalition, presents a compelling case for the urgency of addressing New York City's homeless cat population crisis. Using conservative estimates and …
5:07:14
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112 sec
Testimony by Will Zweigart, Founder and Executive Director of Flatbush Cats
Will Zweigart, founder of Flatbush Cats, expresses strong support for increased funding for spay/neuter programs and a pet food bank pilot program for low-income New Yorkers. He emphasizes the importance …
5:09:10
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138 sec
Testimony by Donovan Tavares, Representative of NAACP Legal Defense Fund, on Mental Health Crisis Response and Police Violence
Donovan Tavares, representing the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, argues for increased funding for community-based responders to mental health crises to prevent interactions with law enforcement. He emphasizes the disproportionate use …
5:12:40
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127 sec
Testimony by Kimberly Saltz, Legal Fellow at NAACP Legal Defense Fund on Mental Health Crisis Response
Kimberly Saltz from the NAACP Legal Defense Fund critiques the proposed increase in funding for street and subway outreach for mental health crises, emphasizing the need for community-based, trauma-informed responses …
5:14:50
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130 sec
Testimony by William Juhn, Senior Staff Attorney at New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, on Police Involvement in Mental Health Crisis Calls
William Juhn, representing New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, testifies on the need to remove police from mental health crisis responses in New York City. He criticizes the current …
5:17:09
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102 sec
Testimony by Toni Smith, New York State Director of Drug Policy Alliance, on Substance Use and Overdose Prevention
Toni Smith from the Drug Policy Alliance presented testimony on the state of overdose deaths in New York City, highlighting disparities in progress and advocating for a health-focused approach to …
5:18:54
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135 sec
Testimony by Shlomit Levy, Project Director of Center for Justice Innovations
Shlomit Levy, Project Director for the Center for Justice Innovations, testified about their mental health and justice programs, highlighting the need for continued funding due to federal cuts. She outlined …
5:21:11
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134 sec
Testimony by Latonya Sassee Walker, Animal Advocate
Latonya Sassee Walker, an animal advocate, expresses gratitude for the proposed grant funding for spay/neuter services and pet food banks. She emphasizes the positive impact these initiatives will have on …
5:24:29
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117 sec
Testimony by Sarah Sears, Volunteer Cat Rescuer, on Funding for Low-Cost Spay/Neuter and Pet Food Pantry
Sarah Sears, a volunteer cat rescuer from The Bronx, testifies in support of funding for low-cost spay/neuter services and a pet food pantry. She describes the financial and emotional challenges …
5:26:29
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130 sec
Testimony by Jonlyn Freeman, Independent Rescuer from New York City Cat Rescuer Alliance
Jonlyn Freeman, an independent rescuer from the New York City Cat Rescuer Alliance, advocates for increased funding for spay/neuter programs and pet pantries in NYC. She highlights the disproportionate burden …
5:28:49
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137 sec
Testimony by Michael Phillips, Representative of Urban Cat League on TNR and Feral Cat Management
Michael Phillips from Urban Cat League discusses the organization's success with Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs in New York City, particularly in Hell's Kitchen. He emphasizes the importance of spay/neuter services and …
5:31:10
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118 sec
Testimony by Joan Novak, Resident of Hell's Kitchen, on Spay/Neuter Funding
Joan Novak, a resident of Hell's Kitchen, testifies in support of funding for spay/neuter programs in New York City. She emphasizes the financial burden on middle-class working people due to …
5:33:15
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76 sec
Testimony by Chris Norwood, Executive Director of Health People, on Diabetes Prevention and Community Education
Chris Norwood, Executive Director of Health People, testified about the lack of implementation of a diabetes reduction plan in New York City, despite previous efforts to create a comprehensive report. …
5:35:31
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138 sec
Testimony by Diabetes Advocate from Health People and Church Alive on Diabetes Education and Funding
A diabetes advocate from Health People and Church Alive testifies about the importance of diabetes education and funding. The speaker shares personal experiences with diabetes, emphasizing the need for tools, …
5:37:53
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158 sec
Testimony by Justyna Rzewinski, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, on Rikers Island Conditions and Mental Health Care
Justyna Rzewinski, a licensed clinical social worker who worked on Rikers Island, testified about the dire conditions and inadequate mental health care in the facility. She described widespread practices of …
5:41:31
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146 sec
Testimony by Dr. Victoria Phillips, CEO and Founder of Visionary V Ministries
Dr. Victoria Phillips, CEO of Visionary V Ministries, addresses the council on mental health crisis response and the impact of mental health issues on incarceration, particularly for women at Rikers …
5:44:00
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68 sec
Testimony by Edwin Santana, Community Organizer from Freedom Agenda
Edwin Santana, representing Freedom Agenda, testified about the urgent need for improved mental health resources and alternatives to incarceration in New York City. He criticized the mayor's approach to mental …
5:45:14
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147 sec
Testimony by Alex Brass, Harm Reductionist and Peer Specialist
Alex Brass, a harm reductionist and peer specialist, provides powerful testimony about his experiences with mental health crises and the need for peer-led crisis response in New York City. He …
5:49:18
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139 sec
Testimony by Dante Bravo, Representative of People's Plan of New York City
Dante Bravo, representing the People's Plan of New York City, testified on the need for increased funding for mental health services in the city budget. He urged the council to …
5:51:40
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97 sec
Testimony by Lyle Braxton, Peer Counselor, on Mental Health Services and Hospital Closures
Lyle Braxton, a peer counselor and NAMI member, passionately addressed the council about the critical issue of hospital closures and the importance of mental health services in New York City. …
5:53:20
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121 sec
Testimony by Constance Lesold, Retired Professional Social Worker, on Assisted Outpatient Treatment Programs
Constance Lesold, a retired professional social worker, testified against the budget allocation for Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) programs, arguing that they are not considered best practice and infringe on the …
5:55:26
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150 sec
Testimony by Jean Bubley, Animal Rescue Volunteer
Jean Bubley, a volunteer animal rescuer, testifies in support of proposed pet food pantries and funding for spay/neuter programs. She emphasizes the financial burden on volunteer rescuers and the importance …
5:58:01
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120 sec
Testimony by Giselle Orazo, Founder of Paws of Hope NYC
Giselle Orazo, founder of Paws of Hope NYC, urges the City Council to allocate funding for free and low-cost spay/neuter services to address the crisis of abandoned pets and animal …
6:01:09
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100 sec
Testimony by Marilyn Galfin, Advocate from Voices for Shelter Animals, on Animal Welfare and Shelter Crisis
Marilyn Galfin from Voices for Shelter Animals testifies about the urgent need for increased funding and comprehensive reforms to address the homeless animal and shelter crisis in New York City. …
6:02:53
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139 sec
Testimony by Anne Levin, Executive Director of Brooklyn Bridge Animal Welfare Coalition on Animal Welfare Initiatives
Anne Levin, Executive Director of Brooklyn Bridge Animal Welfare Coalition, testified in support of a $1.5 million spay/neuter fund and a pet food pantry initiative. She highlighted the success of …
6:05:26
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121 sec
Testimony by Julia Rassmann, Director of Rescue at Brooklyn Bridge Animal Welfare Coalition
Julia Rassmann, representing the Brooklyn Bridge Animal Welfare Coalition, advocates for ongoing support for pet owners and community cat caregivers, emphasizing the need for pet food pantries and increased spay/neuter …
6:07:29
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130 sec
Testimony by Candice Kumai, Animal Rescue Volunteer
Candice Kumai, a writer, reporter, and animal rescue volunteer, testified about the importance of investing in spay and neuter initiatives in New York City. She emphasized how these programs can …
6:09:41
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127 sec
Testimony by Christopher Leon Johnson on Gun Violence Prevention and E-bike Crisis
Christopher Leon Johnson testifies before the New York City Council committees, advocating for recognition of the New York State gun violence prevention task force office and funding for New Yorkers …
6:12:13
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129 sec
Testimony by Chloe Rein, President of Brooklyn Kitty Committee on Animal Welfare Funding
Chloe Rein, President of Brooklyn Kitty Committee, testified about the urgent need for increased city funding for animal welfare, particularly for spay/neuter services and pet food assistance. She highlighted the …
6:14:37
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128 sec
Testimony by Carmen Garcia, Community Health Worker Supervisor at Make the Road New York
Carmen Garcia from Make the Road New York urges the city council to continue and enhance funding for various health initiatives that support health education and navigation for vulnerable New …
6:17:48
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143 sec
Testimony by Abby Jeffrey, Assistant Vice President of Behavioral Health and Wellness, City Programs at JCCA
Abby Jeffrey from JCCA testified about the challenges faced by mental health providers in New York City, including workforce shortages, funding issues, and potential impacts of federal Medicaid cuts. She …
6:21:20
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122 sec
Testimony by Leonard Leveille, Director of Prevention Programs at JCCA
Leonard Leveille, Director of Prevention Programs at JCCA, testified about their Second Chances program, which provides mental health support and counseling for court-involved youth aged 12-17. The program offers short-term …
6:23:38
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142 sec
Testimony by Daniele Gerard, Senior Attorney at Children's Rights
Daniele Gerard, representing Children's Rights and the New York City Jails Action Coalition, urges the City Council to cut the Department of Correction budget and redistribute funding to programs that …
6:26:28
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120 sec
Testimony by Jacob Zychick, Community Advocacy Director of American Heart Association on Heart Disease and Stroke Initiatives
Jacob Zychick from the American Heart Association testified in support of funding for initiatives addressing heart disease and stroke in New York City. He emphasized the need for implementing a …
6:28:37
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131 sec
Testimony by Anthony Feliciano, Vice President for Advocacy at Housing Works
Anthony Feliciano from Housing Works addresses urgent priorities in the face of federal funding threats, emphasizing the need for increased funding for HIV and hepatitis C initiatives, as well as …
6:31:21
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114 sec
Testimony by Jennifer Parish, Director of Criminal Justice Advocacy at Urban Justice Center Mental Health Project
Jennifer Parish from the Urban Justice Center Mental Health Project advocates for increased funding for mental health crisis response teams, specifically calling for a $4.5 million allocation to support peer …
6:33:44
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101 sec
Testimony by Mbacke Thiam, Housing and Health Community Organizer from Center for Independence of the Disabled New York
Mbacke Thiam, representing the Center for Independence of the Disabled New York, advocated for improved mental health services and support for people with disabilities. The testimony focused on the implementation …
6:35:36
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129 sec
Testimony by Rahman Al-Mousalli on Cardiovascular Health and Nutrition Programs
Rahman Al-Mousalli testifies about the importance of preventative cardiovascular health care and nutrition programs in New York City. He emphasizes the need for funding remote blood pressure monitoring and expanding …
6:37:55
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133 sec
Testimony by Justin Osorio, Program Manager at New York Edge
Justin Osorio from New York Edge presents a funding request to the New York City Council for the fiscal year 2026, seeking $1.2 million for after-school programs and $250,000 for …
6:40:15
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122 sec