On April 16, 2023, NYC adopted Local Law 49 of 2003. The new law was originally introduced as Int. 431 in 2002 by Council Member Rafael Salamanca. Local Law 49 will require the Department of Homeless Services to provide biannual customer service training to employees working in the city’s homeless shelters. The law was enacted just months after a Venezuelan asylum seeker in a shelter was struck in the face by a DHS officer in … <Read More>
City Council
Council Approves Sharing IDNYC Application Info with City High School Students
On March 16, 2023, City Council passed Introduction No. 403A, sponsored by Council Member Rita C. Joseph. The law’s purpose is to require the Department of Education to distribute information about the IDNYC municipal identification program to every student from grades 9 through 12, at the start of each school year.
Proposed Council Bill Seeks Feasibility of Universal Benefits Application
A universal application for city benefit programs might be coming to New York City. On February 2, 2023, Councilmember Crystal Hudson introduced Introduction 910 to the City Council. The bill would mandate the Commissioner of the Department of Social Services to complete and publish a report on the feasibility of creating a universal benefits application for city benefit programs. Should the creation of a universal application be deemed feasible, it would allow individuals to use … <Read More>
Council Approves Bill to Incorporate Universal Design Features in City-Funded Housing Developments
On February 21, 2023, Mayor Eric Adams signed Local Law 030 of 2023. The law will require housing developers receiving City funds for new rental developments with over 41 units to incorporate universal design features. The goal of the law is to make all units fully accessible to any occupant no matter their age, or disability. The law will meet the needs of New Yorkers so that they can age safely in their homes and … <Read More>
Council Passes Bill to Create Accessibility Advisory Board in Shelters
On February 2, 2023, the City Council passed Introduction 92 of 2022. The new law introduced by Council Member Diana Ayala will establish an advisory board to identify, report on, and advise on issues relating to accessibility at homeless shelters. Mayor Eric Adams signed the bill in Local Law 23 of 2023 on February 21.