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New York City Council
Establish the Center for Fatherhood Initiatives under the Office of Children and Family Services
Read summaries and jump into the video at the segment start.
Council staff welcomes attendees to the Committee on Children and Youth vote, asks that electronic devices be silenced, and instructs that no one approach the front desk chair.
Chair Althea V. Stevens introduces herself and the committee vote on proposed Resolution 142-A, thanking Council Members Felder and Joseph for attending on time.
Chair Stevens describes Resolution 142-A, sponsored by Council Member Kevin Riley, which calls on New York State to pass and the Governor to sign legislation establishing the Center for Fatherhood Initiatives under the Office of Children and Family Services.
Drawing on her career in the provider space, Chair Stevens says children with engaged, present fathers experience stronger cognitive and behavioral development, higher self-esteem, and improved academic performance.
Chair Stevens notes that many fathers face systemic barriers to engaging in their children's lives, especially co-parenting and non-custodial parents, those incarcerated or in reentry, and young teen fathers who often have few resources.
Chair Stevens says she is glad the resolution is being voted on and hopeful the new state office will strengthen family dynamics and community, thanking committee staff and her District 16 team.
Chair Stevens reads remarks for Council Member Kevin Riley, who is unable to attend, expressing gratitude to the committee for elevating Resolution 142 and excitement that the bill is coming to a vote.
The remarks thank Senator Bailey and Assemblymember Diaz for their leadership in Albany, and describe how fathers navigate difficult social barriers without inherited knowledge of available services.
The remarks say the centers would offer statewide support including mentoring, job training, and parent supports to help fathers overcome barriers and strengthen families, calling the resolution a step toward healthier communities.
Chair Stevens thanks colleagues who supported the legislation and Elizabeth Arts with the legislative division, then concludes Riley's remarks and turns the floor over to the clerk for the roll call.
Committee clerk Ben Jacobs calls the roll on Resolution 142-A; Chair Stevens and Council Member Joseph vote aye, with Council Members Osei, Williams, and Felder recorded.
The clerk announces the vote of three in the affirmative, none in the negative, and no abstentions, and declares Resolution 142-A adopted. The vote is then closed.