NY City Council votes to pass “Renewable Rikers” Act

Reporter: Moses Kuwema

The New York City Council on Thursday voted on legislation to transfer the land, buildings and facilities of Rikers Island from the Department of Correction (DOC) to the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS).

This legislation comes ahead of the August 31, 2027 deadline that prohibits Rikers Island from being used for incarceration.

The Council also voted on a bill to require a feasibility study to determine whether different types of renewable energy sources, combined with battery storage, are feasible on Rikers Island.

The Council also voted to create a pilot program to test sewage for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Wastewater samples are an underutilized early detection tool for this virus. Early detection of the virus early can help to track circulation or re-emergence in the community. This legislation will include a plan for increased testing at each City wastewater treatment plant if deemed appropriate and offers recommendations for making the program permanent.

The Council also voted on a bill to address health disparities for women and communities of color. The bill will create an advisory board for gender and racial equity in hospitals to advise the Mayor and the Council on issues related to gender and racial equity in the provision of health care services and healthcare services in hospitals in New York City. Implicit bias has been a major factor in negative health outcomes. Members also voted on a resolution that calls on New York State to require medical schools to train students in implicit bias.

Additionally, the Council voted on legislation that disqualifies people who have been convicted of certain felonies that relate to public corruption and depriving the public of honest services from holding local elected office. The bill would apply to the offices of Mayor, Comptroller, Public Advocate, Borough President, and Council Member.

The Council also voted on two bills related to the city’s 311 service. The first would require 311 to conduct customer satisfaction surveys in eleven different languages. The second would require 311 to publish the timeframes in which agencies are expected to respond to 311 service requests. In addition, the Council will vote on a bill to extend the moratorium on the issuance of accessory sign violations.