Facing a continuous influx of migrants, New York City is implementing a new policy requiring adult asylum seekers in city shelters to find alternative housing within 60 days. Mayor Eric Adams announced the measure on Wednesday, explaining that it aims to prioritize housing for migrant families with children. Caseworkers will assist those affected in finding new accommodations and accessing other necessary services. Individuals unable to secure housing within the 60-day timeframe will need to reapply for shelter placement at the intake center.
Mayor Adams emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "We must create space for families with children seeking asylum and help those already here take the next steps in their journey. Our goal is to ensure no child or family sleeps on the streets." He reiterated the ongoing strain on city resources due to the arrival of 300 to 500 migrants daily, with over 54,800 currently under the city's care. Adams declared the situation unsustainable and called for increased support from state and federal governments.
The city has resorted to various measures, including renting entire hotels, utilizing cots in schools, and temporarily housing migrants in tents, a cruise ship terminal, and a former police academy. Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services, Anne Williams-Isom, clarified that the 60-day notices will be issued on a rolling basis to adult asylum seekers who have been in the shelter system for an extended period. The intention is to facilitate movement within the system and help individuals find their ultimate settlement locations.
However, immigration advocates have expressed concerns that this policy will create unnecessary obstacles for vulnerable migrants and potentially violate the city's legal obligation to provide shelter to those in need. Murad Awawdeh, executive director of the New York Immigration Coalition, criticized the policy as detrimental, predicting it will lead to homelessness and contradict New York City's welcoming values. Despite potential legal challenges, Mayor Adams affirmed his commitment to the new policy, stating that the court system will have its say.
