A judge has ruled that New York City’s controversial plan to allow first responders to involuntarily hospitalize homeless people with mental illness can go forward, according to CNN.

Under Mayor Eric Adams’ plan, which faced backlash and legal challenges soon after it was introduced in November, first responders would have the authority to remove and involuntarily hospitalize anyone on the street who “appears to be mentally ill” or “demonstrates an inability to meet the basic needs of life.” Removal will be granted even if the person is not considered a danger to himself or others.

Mental health advocates, organizations and individuals alleged that the city’s plan was too broad and violated constitutional rights. The New York Times. In December, a motion was filed as a part Existing litigationCalling US District Judge Paul Crotty to issue Temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction against the scheme.

Crotty The proposal was rejected on Monday.

These legal challenges came soon after Adams’ plan was announced, As part of efforts to address issues surrounding homelessness, mental health and crime.

Accordingly Coalition for the HomelessIn November 2022, 22,697 single adults were sleeping in city shelters each night – a near record since the Great Depression. In the US, 20.8% Homeless people have serious mental illness.

The city also has a A wave of attacks – subways and streets in recent years – some of which include homeless people. Before Adams Claimed These attacks were associated with mental illness.

Meanwhile, A Press conference In November, Adams said the city has a “moral responsibility” to help homeless people with mental illness get treatment.

But the plan immediately raised concerns. Mental health and disability advocates previously told HuffPost that the plan is not the safest option and fails to respect the autonomy of homeless people with mental illness. He also shared concerns about how they Reflects previous legislation — such as ugly laws — that have historically targeted the disabled and homeless.

He added, mental illness cannot be detected just by looking at someone. New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, a civil rights law firm and one of the plaintiffs in the December lawsuit, said in a statement. Press release The plan “lowers the bar” for involuntary detention and hospitalization To such a degree that “almost anyone can be forcibly detained and hospitalized against their will.”

The firm sent a statement CNN It said it was disappointed by the judge’s decision this week.

“The rights of New Yorkers with mental disabilities, especially those who are homeless, are threatened by the city’s new involuntary removal policy. “Our petition continues to challenge the city’s use of New York Police Department officers as first responders when someone is experiencing a mental health crisis,” the statement said. CNN.