A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to creating an integrated and confidential data system to track all engagement with street homeless individuals

Summary

This local law amends the administrative code of the city of New York to enhance the tracking of engagements with street homeless individuals. It mandates the Department of Homeless Services (DHS) to create a digital platform accessible via mobile devices for outreach staff. This platform will allow for real-time tracking and reporting of all interactions, including conversations, assistance with medical treatment, and service referrals.

The law also requires DHS to maintain a record of unsheltered homeless persons receiving services or contacted by outreach staff, updated in real-time. This record will include demographic information and the location of engagement. Quarterly reports will be submitted to the City Council and posted online, detailing:

• The total number of unsheltered homeless persons, disaggregated by engagement location.
• The number of individuals who accepted services, broken down by service type (e.g., substance use treatment, mental health, medical).
• The number of engagements resulting in temporary or permanent housing placements.

The digital platform is to be integrated with existing data management systems for secure data sharing and longitudinal tracking of client outcomes. The law takes effect 120 days after it becomes law.

Citizen Impact

This initiative aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of street outreach services for homeless individuals by creating a centralized, real-time data system. Residents can expect more coordinated and informed outreach efforts to connect unsheltered individuals with necessary services and housing.

Confidence

high