Overwhelming number of New Yorkers support changes to take mentally ill off streets, subways: poll

A recent poll conducted by the Association for a Better New York revealed that nearly 90% of New York City voters are in favor of expanding involuntary commitment and care for mentally ill residents who are roaming the streets or the subway. The survey, which included 600 voters, showed overwhelming support for this proposed change, with only 4% opposed and 8% undecided.

The poll asked participants whether they supported expanding the state eligibility standard for involuntary treatment and care to include individuals who are unable to care for themselves and meet their basic needs. The results showed that the majority of voters across all demographic groups and areas of the city were in favor of this expansion.

Additionally, more than 90% of voters agreed that providing involuntary treatment and care for people with severe mental illness is more compassionate than leaving them on the streets. The poll also found that 73% of voters believe that the number of public safety incidents involving individuals with untreated severe mental illness has increased in recent years.

The chairman of ABNY, Steven Rubenstein, emphasized the importance of addressing this issue, stating that New Yorkers are rightfully concerned about their safety, especially in the transit system. The proposed laws to better care for those who cannot care for themselves have solid support from New Yorkers.

Despite the overwhelming public support, Governor Kathy Hochul is facing resistance in the legislature regarding her bid to expand involuntary commitment laws. The state Assembly and Senate have either omitted or modified parts of her proposal in their separate counter proposals to the governor’s budget plan.

While some mental health care advocates and civil activists oppose forced treatment, others, including Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, believe that there could be room for acceptable compromise. Heastie expressed the importance of ensuring that subways do not become temporary living spaces for individuals with mental health issues.

Overall, the poll conducted by Tulchin Research for ABNY highlights the widespread support among New York City voters for expanding involuntary commitment and care for mentally ill residents. The findings underscore the urgent need to address untreated severe mental illness while ensuring public safety.