December 21, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New York City – Council Member Eric Dinowitz proudly announces a significant leap forward with the passage of Int. No. 1273A-2023 during the City Council’s December 20th Stated Meeting. This pivotal bill, integral to Stop 2 of Speaker Adams’ Mental Health Road Map, addresses the pressing mental health needs of New York City veterans.

In collaboration with Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS) Commissioner James Hendon, this transformative legislation mandates that any city agency providing social services include demographic questions related to veteran status on their forms. This ensures veterans receive the targeted support they have earned.

“The men and women who have dedicated their lives to our country deserve our deepest gratitude, and that appreciation must extend beyond words” said Council Member Eric Dinowitz. “My bill marks a significant leap forward, rectifying historical failures in addressing the mental health needs of our veterans. By knowing who and where our veterans are, we can more effectively provide them the support they have more than earned.”

“We applaud the passage of this crucial bill, understanding the profound impact it will have on our ability to reach and support the NYC veteran community,” said Department of Veterans’ Services Commissioner James Hendon. The integration of such a survey will help ensure that no veteran is overlooked, allowing us to deliver tailored assistance to those veterans in need. We look forward to leveraging this data to enhance our outreach efforts and services as we continue to foster a community where every veteran feels supported.”

“Opening doors to services for veterans is a moral imperative,” said Sergio Villaverde, Chair of Bronx Community Board 8’s Special Committee on Veterans Services. “I am immensely proud to have this legislation sponsored by my local Council Member, Eric Dinowitz. This is a decisive step toward closing the gaps through which our veterans too often fall.”

Council Member Dinowitz remains an unwavering advocate for the well-being of our veterans, ensuring they receive the robust support and services they have rightfully earned. He is the lead sponsor of veteran legislation in the 2022-2023 session, having passed the most veteran-related bills.

Starting in January, Council Member Dinowitz will initiate monthly office hours in collaboration with Commissioner James Hendon, providing veterans the opportunity to engage with DVS representatives for personalized assistance regarding their needs and benefits.