Proposed bill would keep abuse centers away from NYC schools, playgrounds

Assemblyman Michael Benedetto proposed a bill that would restrict substance abuse facilities and treatment centers from operating within 500 feet of a school, park or house of worship.
Benedetto's proposal comes on the heels of a recent plan being considered by the state that would expand treatment services at Miracle City, which is located across the street from a preschool in Throgs Neck.
If approved by the state's Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse, the building which currently offers drug counseling would also expand to include outpatient treatment services. Benedetto says his proposed bill would prevent drug treatment centers from being in close proximity of where children learn and play.
The assemblyman is pushing for supporters in the state Senate to sponsor the bill in order to move the legislation forward before the new session begins next year.