Municipal Law

During the administration of Mayor Michael Bloomberg, the New York City Board of Health and the City’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene have developed a number of noteworthy initiatives to protect and promote the health and well-being of New Yorkers. Whether in the areas of food, tobacco products or disease prevention, the board and Health and Mental Hygiene have led in the establishment of innovative public health programs.

Established in 1822 in response to repeated outbreaks of yellow fever in the city, the Board of Health adds to and amends the New York City Health Code, codified at Title 24 of the Rules of the City of New York, whose provisions “have the force and effect of law.” Section 558 of the New York City Charter authorizes the board of health to legislate in the health code regarding “all matters to which the power and authority of [Department of Health and Mental Hygiene] extends,” embracing, pursuant to §556, “all matters affecting health in the city of New York and…all those functions and operations performed by the city that relate to the health of the people of the city[.]” Accordingly, the health code governs matters fundamental to the well-being of city residents, from school health services to the safety of radiation equipment.