A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to the commissioner of homeless services coordinating with hospitals to distribute informational materials on certain weather events to patients and make services directly available to discharged patients during such events

Summary

This local law, introduced by Council Member Abreu, mandates the Commissioner of Homeless Services to coordinate with hospitals regarding weather emergencies.

Key Provisions:

• Informational Materials: Within 60 days of enactment, the Commissioner must develop and annually update flyers and pamphlets about "Code Blue" (temperatures 32°F or below) and "Code Red" (heat emergencies) alerts. These materials will detail resources for individuals experiencing homelessness, recommended hospital procedures for discharging homeless patients during alerts, and agency contact information.
• Distribution: These materials will be provided to city-affiliated and non-affiliated hospitals for distribution to patients at their discretion.
• Discharged Patient Services: The Commissioner must make best efforts to coordinate with hospitals during Code Blue and Code Red alerts to identify homeless patients being discharged, assess their needs, and directly provide or facilitate access to services. This includes directing and transporting individuals to drop-in centers, shelters, warming centers, and cooling centers, potentially with extended hours.
• Definitions: The law defines "Code Blue Alert," "Code Red Alert," "Cooling Center," "Drop-in Center," "Shelter," and "Warming Center."

This law takes effect immediately.

Citizen Impact

This law aims to improve the coordination between hospitals and homeless services during extreme weather events. Residents experiencing homelessness discharged from hospitals during heat waves or cold snaps will have better access to essential services like shelters and warming/cooling centers, with direct assistance and transportation provided.

Confidence

high