New York City Council Bill Would Block Policy to Restrict Use of Force by Shelter Staff

The New York City Council is considering a new bill that would prevent the Commissioner of Homeless Services from restricting the use of non-deadly physical force by peace officers and security guards in shelters. The legislation, Int. No. 0039-2022, was introduced on Feb. 24 by Council Minority Leader Joseph Borelli and Councilmembers David Carr and Kalman Yeger. The bill aims to limit the authority of the Commissioner to implement policies that restrict the use of force by shelter staff in self-defense situations.

Critics argue that the bill fails to address the root causes of the problem, which include the hostile environments many shelter residents face. Advocates for the unhoused emphasize that mistreatment by staff is a significant concern within the current shelter system. They suggest that the focus should be on expanding access to affordable permanent housing, which could reduce the need for shelter services and improve conditions for those who rely on them.

The proposal comes amid broader discussions about homelessness in New York City. Mayor Eric Adams recently announced a plan to remove chronically street homeless individuals from the subway system, a move critics say reflects a return to an ineffective “shelter-first” approach. This strategy has been widely criticized for failing to provide long-term solutions to homelessness.

Shelters in New York City often employ either security guards or peace officers, both of whom are contracted through the Department of Homeless Services. Peace officers, unlike full police officers, have limited authority and are trained for specific duties under New York State law. They are required to complete a minimum of 99 hours of training, which many advocates argue is insufficient for the complex needs of shelter residents.

Joshua Goldfein, a staff attorney with the Legal Aid Society’s Homeless Rights Project, stated that the use of force in interactions between staff and residents is rarely appropriate. He emphasized that force should only be used in the most serious incidents, where it is absolutely necessary for safety. This perspective highlights the need for clearer guidelines and more comprehensive training for shelter staff.

The bill’s sponsors have not provided comments on the legislation, despite multiple attempts to reach them. This lack of engagement has raised questions about the motivations behind the proposal and its potential impact on shelter residents. Advocates continue to call for policies that prioritize the dignity and safety of those experiencing homelessness, rather than policies that may inadvertently exacerbate the challenges they face.

The debate over shelter environments reflects broader concerns about how society treats the most vulnerable. As the city grapples with the complexities of homelessness, the need for policies that reflect compassion and accountability becomes increasingly urgent. The challenge lies in balancing the safety of all individuals with the dignity and humanity of those who are most in need.

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