Mayor Adams announced last week that he would pursue state legislation to authorize involuntary commitment of those with substance abuse disorder.

Under existing law, involuntary removal to a hospital for evaluation requires that a person appear to be mentally ill and dangerous. A clinician must diagnose a mental illness likely to result in serious harm to that person or to others in order for an individual to be against his or her own will admitted to a hospital for treatment.

The law does not allow involuntary transport of people who pose a danger to themselves or others primarily due to substance use disorder.

Adams said that in his next term, when the legislature reconvenes, he will lobby lawmakers to change that through the “Compassionate Interventions Act.” According to City Hall,

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