NYC TO INVOLUNTARILY HOSPITALIZE MORE MENTALLY ILL PEOPLE

New York City Mayor Eric Adams (D) revealed a new plan Tuesday to remove people with severe, untreated mental illness from city streets and subways.

 

Under the plan, New York City agencies would be able to forcibly hospitalize people who appear to be mentally ill even if they do not pose a threat to others around them.

In a Tuesday press conference, Adams directed city agencies like the New York Police Department, the New York City Fire Department, and emergency responders to bring the mentally ill to hospitals for extended emergency care.

 

“The common misunderstanding persists that we cannot provide involuntary assistance unless the person is violent, suicidal, or presenting a risk of imminent harm,” Adams said.

 

“This myth must be put to rest. Going forward we will make every effort to assist those who are suffering from mental illness and whose illness is endangering them by preventing them from meeting their basic human needs.”