Legislative Update – November/December
Governor Hochul declares new State of Emergency; Cold call ban remains in effect
On September 27, Governor Kathy Hochul issued an Executive Order declaring a new statewide disaster emergency due to healthcare staffing shortages in hospitals and health facilities, which will remain in effect until at least October 27, 2021. Additionally, the existing gun violence state of emergency remains in effect until at least October 8, which could be renewed by the governor. As a result, licensees are still prohibited from conducting telemarketing and cold calls. NYSAR is continuing to urge state lawmakers to resolve this issue by allowing telemarketing practices during states of emergencies that do not impair the state’s telecommunication systems.
Landlords can now apply for new rental assistance funding if tenants have vacated or have not cooperated with ERAP application
Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced that $125 million in state funding is now available to assist landlords whose tenants have vacated with arrears or declined to apply or participate in the state’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). Landlords can apply beginning October 7 for the new first-come, first-serve Landlord Rental Assistance Program for funding of up to 12 months of past-due rent. New York is reporting that the state has so far approved more than 63,000 direct payments to landlords, totaling $804 million in rental assistance. You can find more information on the new Landlord Rental Assistance Program, including qualifications and application process by clicking here.
Hochul holds strong lead in first Democratic primary poll
Gov. Kathy Hochul holds a commanding lead in a potential Democratic primary race according to a poll released by Marist College. The Marist Poll found Hochul leading Attorney General Letitia James, 44 percent to 28 percent, in a three-way race in which city Public Advocate Jumaane Williams trailed with just 13 percent. The Marist Poll surveyed 822 adult New Yorkers — including 389 registered Democrats — by phone between Oct. 4 and October 7th, and the results are considered statistically significant within 4.8 percent.
“Right to Counsel” Legislation Introduced In Albany County
Albany County Legislator Sam Fein, representing the 6th district, has introduced Local Law L, which would create a new right to counsel for renters during an eviction case. The Democrat notes legal representation would be available at taxpayer expense for those who meet income eligibility requirements. Fein claims his legislation would stabilize communities by reducing eviction rates, and help ensure fair outcomes in the court system while paying for itself over time by decreasing shelter stays and the use of other social services. Local Law L will get a public airing in October.
