NYC Council Urged to Prioritize Mental Health Funding Over Incarceration in Budget Hearing

During a budget hearing on March 7, the New York City Council discussed critical funding for mental health services aimed at preventing incarceration. Advocates and providers emphasized the importance of community-based treatment options over incarceration, arguing that investing in mental health services could significantly reduce recidivism and improve public safety.

Witnesses at the hearing highlighted alarming trends related to mental health issues within the correctional system. Many speakers pointed out that a substantial portion of the incarcerated population suffers from mental health disorders, a situation exacerbated by insufficient resources and inadequate care in facilities like Rikers Island. One provider noted that the cost of incarcerating an individual at Rikers exceeds $57,000 per year, which could alternatively fund extensive mental health services for multiple individuals (Source: https://youtu.be/rg-7lXya_2c&t=21804).

Advocates called for increased investments in Alternatives to Incarceration (ATI) and supportive housing initiatives. They argued that for every dollar spent on mental health care and rehabilitation, the city would see a return in reduced recidivism and overall community safety. “Incarceration does not work, especially for youth,” argued one advocate, stressing that young people face negative outcomes in education and health when confined (Source: https://youtu.be/WXUyG-XQtKY&t=23012).

The testimony from organizations that support mental health initiatives lamented that despite the growing need, city funding has not kept pace with the demand. For instance, a program coordinator revealed that their mental health court had seen its caseload double in the last four years without adequate funding to hire additional staff (Source: https://youtu.be/WXUyG-XQtKY&t=19445).

Advocates reiterated the importance of comprehensive development of mental health services, calling for the establishment of dedicated facilities that could provide ongoing support rather than relying on jails as makeshift treatment centers. Mental health professionals highlighted the necessity of treating individuals at the community level to effectively break the cycle of incarceration (Source: https://getlocalpost.com/2025/02/07/nyc-council-prioritizes-youth-mental-health-new-legislation-aims-to-enhance-support-services/).

Looking ahead, the city council members and advocates urged for a shift in budget priorities away from expanding correctional capacity and towards sustainable mental health services. This includes restoration of proposed cuts to crucial ATI and re-entry programs, stressing that such investments are not only morally imperative but also fiscally responsible as they address the root causes of incarceration (Source: https://youtu.be/rg-7lXya_2c&t=2060).

As the council continues to deliberate over the FY 2026 budget, there is a pressing need to align financial allocations with policies that genuinely support mental health initiatives, paving the way for healthier, safer communities across New York City.