Saturday, June 15, 2019

Assemblymember Michael A. Blake - Statement on passage of historic tenant protections


  “The passage and signing of the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019 marks a milestone for tenants of The Bronx and across New York State. I thank the advocates, Speaker Heastie, Senate Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins and Housing Committee Chairman Steve Cymbrowitz for proving that affordable housing and rent regulations are human rights. Our 79th Assembly District is home to thousands of Bronxites who live within rent stabilized units, and now they have strong protections to stay in their homes without fear that a landlord can unfairly raise rents and expenses - causing families to lose their homes. By preventing bad landlords from raising preferential rates to exorbitant levels, limiting the impact of renovations on tenant rent costs, enacting new anti-harassment protections, and making it easier to challenge rent increases and file overcharge claims, the legislation protects tenants across the 79th Assembly District, the South Bronx and New York. As a member of the Assembly housing committee and a Co-Sponsor on this historic legislation, I’m incredibly proud that this moment has finally arrived.

Given how my Mama Hilary overcame homelessness, and reflecting on the days when we sold dinners to pay our rent in The Bronx, I understand firsthand that quality and affordable housing is a right that we all deserve.  I #BelieveInTheBronx because of the determination and passion of the people of the Bronx. The tenant protections enacted today prove once again that we are here for the people."

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