NYC NOW

A new artificial intelligence training center for New York City teachers is raising concerns among some educators about creating a harmful environment that stunts student learning and critical thinking. Meanwhile, the United Federation of Teachers has voted to endorse Zohran Mamdani in the mayoral election. Also, a WNYC analysis finds Mamdani won about 30 percent of districts that previously voted for Donald Trump. Data show many of the voters in those Trump-Mamdani neighborhoods are Asian American. WNYC’s Joe Hong has been speaking with some of those voters in Bensonhurst and Flushing. He discusses his findings.

A federal judge has paused New York City’s solitary confinement ban, saying a court-appointed monitor must first review whether the law is safe for Rikers Island. Meanwhile, an arts group housed at West Park Presbyterian Church is being evicted as the landmarked building faces possible demolition amid financial struggles. And the Adams administration is calling for the release of a 19-year-old Grover Cleveland High School student detained by ICE in Texas, arguing federal authorities are undermining public safety.

The Adams Administration is calling for the release of an 11th grader who was detained by federal immigration authorities last month. Also, a new report from the city health department finds that doulas were involved in more than 6% of births last year, up from less than 5% in 2022. Plus, after being threatened with a knife, Albany’s interim U.S. Attorney wants the permanent job. Meanwhile, a New York City nonprofit is offering psychiatric services to the most vulnerable New Yorkers by pulling up to where they are. And finally, New York City art schools are seeing an application boom.

City officials are warning New Yorkers to prepare for dangerous summer weather through Wednesday, with a heat advisory in effect and a flood watch starting Tuesday afternoon. Meanwhile, Mayor Eric Adams is pitching a major shakeup to city elections by introducing “open primaries” where all candidates run together regardless of party. Plus, WNYC’s Liam Quigley explains why Staten Island beaches could be the perfect spot for New Yorkers looking to avoid the crowds.

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Tuesday, warning it could feel as hot as 100 degrees in the city. Older adults, outdoor workers, and those without air conditioning are especially at risk. Meanwhile, a new city health department report shows more pregnant New Yorkers are using doulas for support, with Mayor Adams expanding free access as part of efforts to improve Black maternal health. Plus, the city is increasingly relying on drones to monitor beaches for sharks

Mayor Adams is calling on former Governor Andrew Cuomo not to run in the general election this November. Plus, service disruptions are coming to the G train. And finally, a search for the subway line with the most hot car complaints.

New York City’s transportation department plans to hire dozens of new officers to crack down on reckless delivery drivers on mopeds and e-bikes. Meanwhile, the National Weather Service is warning of showers, thunderstorms, and possible flash flooding across the metro area starting Tuesday. Plus, as global pollinator populations decline, the city’s parks department is working to protect bees and butterflies with 23 pollinator-friendly gardens across the five boroughs. Matthew Morrow, director of horticulture for NYC Parks, and Georgina Cullman, an ecologist with the department, discuss the effort.

The New York City Council has passed a bill eliminating misdemeanor charges and potential jail time for street vendors who violate city laws. In New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation to expand the state’s film tax credit program, reserving $250 million in incentives for productions that choose the Garden State over Hollywood. Meanwhile, the NYPD reports a steep decline in catalytic converter thefts across the city over the past three years.

Governor Phil Murphy has signed legislation designed to position New Jersey as a hub for film and television production. The new law expands tax incentives to attract studios and production companies, with the goal of competing directly with Hollywood. WNYC’s Mike Hayes explains what this could mean for New Jersey’s entertainment industry.

The NYPD commissioner has cleared an officer who fatally shot an unarmed man during a 2019 traffic stop, going against a judge’s recommendation to fire him. Meanwhile, Fourth of July celebrations in Plainfield, New Jersey, are canceled after severe thunderstorms swept through the area. Plus, the Mets and Yankees square off this weekend in their second Subway Series of the season. And Congress narrowly passed a sweeping tax and spending package this week, handing President Trump a major legislative victory. WNYC’s Jimmy Vielkind breaks down what it means for New York State.