Jul. 18, 2023 By Anthony Medina
Councilman Robert Holden introduced two separate pieces of legislation during a recent New York City Council meeting on Thursday, July 13. One proposed bill will pay close attention to the use of illicit drugs in the city and another recognizes Korean War Veterans.
Holden’s new bill (Intro 1123) will mandate wastewater testing for controlled substances by the NYC Department of Environmental Protection and require the city agency to release a comprehensive report on the types and levels of controlled substances discovered — especially in neighborhoods with a significant potential for addiction or other serious health consequences.
“By passing Intro 1123, we will enhance the city’s ability to monitor illicit drug use with greater accuracy than current methods allow,” Holden said. “Several European cities have successfully implemented wastewater testing, enabling their governments to allocate resources more efficiently to affected communities. Had we adopted this approach nationwide a decade ago, we could have been alerted to the opioid crisis much earlier.”
Holden also introduced Resolution 716, which aims to establish July 27 as Korean War Veterans Armistice Day. The day this year will mark the 70th anniversary of the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement. Recognition of the day annually will pay homage to the courage and sacrifice of those who served during the Korean War.
“We must always remember and pay tribute to the brave men and women who fought for our freedom and the freedom of societies worldwide,” Holden stated. He also expressed grave importance in honoring previous generations who worked hard to safeguard freedom worldwide.
Holden represents the neighborhoods of Glendale, Maspeth, Middle Village, Ridgewood, Woodhaven and Woodside in the City Council.