Assemblyman William Colton (D – Gravesend, Bensonhurst, Bath Beach, and Dyker Heights) is saying that NYC Administration strengthens and enforces the use of Kendra’s law.

“I voted for Kendra's Law which is a state law that allows court-ordered outpatient mental health treatment for people considered dangerous to themselves or others. We cannot continue to allow homeless individuals with such mental issues to live on the subways or on the streets. It is unfair for commuters to feel unsafe using public transportation. Everyone deserves a clean and safe environment to live in,” Colton stated.

The NYS legislation requires that assisted outpatient treatment (AOT) is a form of civil commitment that authorizes the court system to require eligible individuals with severe psychiatric disorders to access mental health professionals to safeguard them and the public. The AOT system often requires taking psychotropic drugs and numerous forms of therapy. If the person shows violent behavior or doesn't comply with the AOT treatment, then they must be involuntarily held for evaluation and eventually be committed to a psychiatric hospital. We can no longer ignore such conditions or blame non-action on the unwillingness to accept treatment, and let law-abiding citizens continue to live in fear,” Colton added.