A New York City hotline designed to assist police officers in implementing Mayor Eric Adams' directive on involuntary hospitalization of homeless individuals has not received a single call since its launch in January. The hotline, operated by NYC Health + Hospitals, was established to provide guidance to officers encountering individuals experiencing mental health crises and unable to care for themselves. Mayor Adams announced the initiative in November 2023, aiming to clarify the legal authority of outreach workers, hospitals, and first responders to provide care for those whose mental illness poses a danger to themselves. The directive aligns with existing state law and court precedents.

Mayor Adams emphasized that the hotline was intended to offer support and clarity to officers who often face challenging situations involving individuals experiencing homelessness and mental health issues. The hotline was presented as a tool for officers to consult with clinical professionals, potentially even using video calls, to assess the situation and determine appropriate actions. City Hall has stated that using the hotline is optional for NYPD officers.

NYC Health + Hospitals confirmed that the hotline is staffed by a team of 30 trained professionals, including psychiatrists, social workers, and other medical personnel. The health system has worked with the NYPD to raise awareness about the hotline through flyers and internal memos. Despite these efforts, the hotline remains unused. Mayor Adams' office and NYC Health + Hospitals have been contacted for comment on the lack of calls.