Here’s Why NYC Mayor Adams’ Plan To Remove Mentally Ill Homeless People From Streets Is Controversial
ForbesNov 25, 2022
The Facts
On Tuesday, New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced a plan to allow first responders to involuntarily hospitalize the mentally ill if they "cannot support their basic human needs to an extent that causes them harm."
Given the legal uncertainty, Adams also suggested that police officers who are unsure whether they have the authority to forcefully hospitalize someone could call a hotline or video chat with a professional "to get an expert opinion on what options may be available."
The Spin
Conservative narrative
Contrary to the progressive orthodoxy, allowing severely mentally ill people to roam the streets is not compassionate; it's flat-out wrong. The mayor should be praised by politicians and city residents from all sides as he's finally taking action to save lives. This is also a strong first step toward the city legislature enacting concrete laws to ensure permanent public safety.
Progressive narrative
Current New York law imposes strict guidelines regarding involuntary hospitalization to protect individuals' civil liberties, and it should stay that way. Only if someone is visibly an immediate threat to themselves or others should they be forcefully taken by authorities.
