Dear Friends, As part of our continued partnership with the Met Council, our community office is pleased to be hosting a community food distribution, details as follows: When: Friday, May 26, 2023 Time: 1:00pm (while supplies last) Where: District 80 Community Office 2018 Williamsbridge Rd If you have any questions, please feel free to contact my community office at (718) 409-0109. Looking forward to seeing everyone then. |
"Expanding access to CityFHEPS housing vouchers is a necessary step in addressing our city’s mounting homelessness crisis, so I applaud the Council for passing bills that will fundamentally transform the voucher program, ensuring that more people can quickly access this critical resource and secure affordable, income targeted housing. As hundreds of new New Yorkers arrive daily to our city, this legislative package will help alleviate our overcrowded shelter system and provide relief to those experiencing homelessness or those being faced with housing insecurity. It's fiscally prudent and morally necessary. I urge Albany to now build on this progress by enacting the The Housing Access Voucher Program, which would further help move people out of temporary shelters and into permanent homes, regardless of immigration status.
"I congratulate Council Members Ayala, Sanchez, Caban, the City Council and Speaker, and all of the dedicated advocates who have worked for years to finally pass these critically important bills.”
The following is a statement from Fabien Levy, press secretary to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, following the New York City Council’s vote this afternoon on a package of City Fighting Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Support (FHEPS) bills:
“Since day one of this administration, we have worked to shelter New Yorkers experiencing homelessness and connect our city’s residents with more permanent housing. That’s why earlier this year, we proposed to the City Council that we work together to remove the 90-day rule for families experiencing homelessness to connect them with housing vouchers faster. They rejected that proposal, and today passed a package of bills that will make it harder for New Yorkers experiencing homelessness to exit shelter to permanent housing. Nearly 20,000 existing voucher holders who cannot currently find housing because of the extremely low vacancy rate in our city would be lumped in with thousands more, including anyone who stops paying rent, for any reason, if they are below 50 percent of area median income. Put simply, these bills will keep New Yorkers experiencing homelessness, the ones who need permanent housing right now, in shelter for longer.
“Additionally, the City Council is adding $17 billion in costs over the next five years — something that is hard not to view as an attempt to force a tax increase on New Yorkers. To build a stronger city, we must connect more New Yorkers experiencing homelessness to housing, but these bills would stymie and effectively halt that process, something New Yorkers experiencing homelessness cannot afford. We are reviewing our options.”
The elimination of the 90-day shelter rule, among other bills, will make it easier for individuals and families to enroll in the CityFHEPS program
Today, the New York City Council passed legislation to help New Yorkers avoid or move out of the city’s shelter system by reforming the City’s rental assistance voucher program, CityFHEPS. New York City is facing a homelessness crisis, with over 80,000 people in the Department of Homeless Services (DHS) shelter system – over 50,000 are longtime New Yorkers. According to the latest figures from the Mayor’s Management Report, single adults and families with children stay in shelter for over a year on average, while adult families remain for over two years. With an increased number of people seeking asylum in the United States arriving in the city, shelter space has become scarce and resulted in an expansion of emergency shelters that are far more expensive. The legislative package of four bills will not only help New Yorkers move out of shelters, but also prevent the evictions of New Yorkers most at risk of homelessness and entering our shelter system.
“Today’s CityFHEPS legislation to remove barriers to accessing housing vouchers will not only help New Yorkers move out of shelters, but also prevent the evictions of New Yorkers most at risk of homelessness,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams. “CityFHEPS vouchers can be powerful tools to help us, but the City’s arcane policies in administering them are counterproductive. Our legislation to remove these arbitrary obstacles will help reduce homelessness, stabilize communities, free up space for asylum seekers and others, all while saving money on costly emergency shelters that skew far more expensive than traditional shelter models while offering fewer services. This is the clear and cost-effective choice for New Yorkers and our communities.”
In addition, the Council voted on several pieces of legislation, which includes: providing transportation safety protections for students with disabilities; establishing technology access and training programs, which was originally proposed in Speaker Adams’ 2022 State of the City address; requiring coordination of summer youth employment program opportunities; making the Open Culture Program permanent; and state home rule messages, including one in support of Sammy’s Law.
Reducing Barriers to CityFHEPS Vouchers
Introduction 878-A, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala, would remove shelter stay as a precondition to CityFHEPS eligibility. This would expand eligibility, reduce length of stay in the shelter system and prevent new shelter entrants.
“CityFHEPS vouchers have been one of our city’s best measures to address the crisis of homelessness. This package of legislation will remove the barriers that keep New Yorkers from accessing CityFHEPS and transitioning out of our shelter system,” said Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala. “Through my own experiences, I intimately understand the difficulty and trauma of losing your home and living in a shelter. No New Yorker should have to experience homelessness and remain in a shelter for an arbitrarily long time in order for the City to provide assistance. It is a proud moment for me to pass these bills with my colleagues and put forward solutions to help meet the crisis we are facing.”
Introduction 893-A, sponsored by Council Member Pierina Sanchez, would remove certain Department of Social Services’ criteria that determines eligibility for CityFHEPS and gives New Yorkers the ability to demonstrate risk of eviction by presenting a rent demand letter.
Introduction 894-A, sponsored by Council Member Pierina Sanchez, would change the eligibility for a CityFHEPS voucher from 200 percent of the federal poverty level to 50 percent of the area median income and remove work and source of income requirements that make it difficult for individuals to pursue employment and housing concurrently.
“We are at a critical juncture in our city’s housing and homelessness crisis, with record levels of individuals and families affected,” said Council Member Pierina Sanchez. “In my district, we know the heartbreaking consequences firsthand. One in ten households of Bronx community district 5 faced eviction last year. This means children forced to commute over 90 minutes from shelters in Queens to the Bronx, severing vital social bonds and support networks that are crucial for their development. The resulting stress at the household and community level permeates our community, manifesting as food insecurity, poor health outcomes, and even violence.”
“We cannot allow this to continue, which is why I am proud to sponsor two vital bills that will stabilize our communities and make our shelter systems more efficient,” continued Council Member Sanchez. “Int. 893 removes the requirement for a previous homelessness history, while Int. 894 eases work and income requirements for shelter residents. These measures will relieve program requirements that essentially require homelessness as a precondition to voucher eligibility and instead make CityFHEPs accessible as an upstream prevention tool to keep families in their homes and out of shelter.”
Introduction 229-A, sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán, would prohibit the Department of Social Services from deducting a utility allowance from the maximum amount of a CityFHEPS voucher except in limited circumstances.
“A comfortable, reliable home is the essential pillar of a dignified life, and a key foundation of true public safety, not to mention public health. New Yorkers without one are, almost by definition, not safe, not healthy, and not being shown the respect they are entitled to as human beings whose lives inherently matter,” said Council Member Tiffany Cabán. “I’m so proud to stand with my colleagues Council Member Sanchez and Deputy Speaker Ayala in putting forward this vital package of legislation to further the goal of housing as a human right.”
Lane Closures Suspended from Friday, May 26 at 6 a.m. to Tuesday, May 30 at 6 a.m.
Motorists Urged to Slow Down and Move Over for Roadside Emergency and Maintenance Vehicles
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended from 6 a.m. on Friday, May 26, to 6 a.m. on Tuesday, May 30, to ease travel throughout the Memorial Day holiday weekend.
“Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of the summer season, and New Yorkers across the state will be hitting the road to enjoy time with friends and family,” Governor Hochul said. “We are suspending construction on state roads to help ease traffic and ensure that everyone is able to reach their destination safely and with minimal delays. I urge everyone traveling this weekend to do their part by planning ahead and driving responsibly.”
Motorists should be aware that some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs. The construction suspension aligns with New York State's Drivers First Initiative, which prioritizes the convenience of motorists to minimize traffic congestion and travel delays due to road and bridge work.
AAA predicts 42.3 million people will travel this Memorial Day weekend, an increase of 7 percent over 2022. With car travel alone, AAA predicts an increase of 6 percent from a year ago, more than two million drivers, totaling 37.1 million people.
Motorists should follow the state's Move Over Law, which requires motorists to slow down and safely move over for law enforcement vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances, tow trucks and construction or maintenance vehicles that are stopped along roads across the state.
Text stops, including park-and-ride facilities, rest stops, service areas and parking areas along state highways support the state's effort to reduce distracted driving. All text stops will remain open, providing locations where drivers can safely and conveniently use their phones and other mobile devices for calling, texting, navigating and accessing mobile apps. Texting while driving is especially dangerous, as it requires motorists to take their eyes off the road, hands off the wheel and mind off driving.
The Thruway Authority reminds motorists that 10 service areas are closed and under construction as part of the $450 million private investment and modernization project. Fuel services remain open at all locations. Motorists can view the service areas and plan their stops on the Thruway Authority's website and on the free mobile app.
Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “Traveling, especially during a busy holiday weekend, can be difficult and stressful, so it is our goal at the New York State Department of Transportation to make travel as easy and safe as possible. By suspending construction activities, Governor Hochul has shown her commitment to safety and convenience, which will allow travelers to reach their destinations with as few disruptions as possible. I urge all motorists to buckle-up, put your phones down, and pay attention – so that everyone reaches their respective destinations, safely.”
New York State Police Acting Superintendent Steven A. Nigrelli said, “Highways are one of the most dangerous work environments encountered by those who respond to emergencies and maintain our roadways. During Memorial Day weekend, not only are there many celebrations, but also increased travel throughout New York State. While road construction will be suspended, motorists should continue to follow the rules of the road. Motorists are reminded to drive with caution through work zones, obey posted speed limits, be mindful of emergency and maintenance vehicle and to not drive impaired. Together, we can make strides to safely celebrate this holiday weekend.”
The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its mobile app, which is available to download for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert emails, which provide the latest conditions along the Thruway.
Follow the Thruway Authority on Twitter @NYSThruway and on Facebook at New York State Thruway Authority.
Travelers can check NYSDOT's 511NY before traveling by calling 5-1-1, visiting the 511 website, or downloading the free 511NY mobile app on iTunes or Google Play. The free service allows users to check road conditions, view 2219 traffic cameras and link to air and transit information. The app features Drive mode, which provides audible alerts along a chosen route while a user is driving, warning them about incidents and construction.
Follow New York State DOT on Twitter @NYSDOT and on Facebook at New York State Department of Transportation.
The Department of Motor Vehicles urges drivers to use the Have a Plan app to help find a safe way home from a celebration where they may be drinking. The free app from the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee and the NYS STOP-DWI Foundation allows users to designate a driver, call a cab or ride share, and to review the consequences of impaired driving. Users can even use the app to report a drunk or drugged driver. The app is available for Apple, Android and Windows smart phones.
Follow DMV on Twitter @NYSDMV and on Facebook at New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York (“SDNY”) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) are soliciting applications from qualified individuals to serve as monitor for the New York City Housing Authority (“NYCHA”) under the January 31, 2019 settlement agreement (“Agreement”) between HUD, NYCHA, and the City of New York, for the second five-year term of the monitorship. The Agreement is available here.
The “primary purpose of the [Agreement] is to remedy the deficient physical conditions in NYCHA properties, ensure that NYCHA complies with its obligations under federal law, reform the management structure of NYCHA, and facilitate cooperation and coordination between HUD, NYCHA, and the City during the term of this Agreement.” Agreement ¶ 8. The monitor plays a significant role in providing strategic advice, technical support, and oversight necessary to achieve these purposes, in partnership with SDNY and HUD and in close collaboration with NYCHA’s own leadership, NYCHA’s residents and resident groups, and the City of New York. Together with these and other stakeholders, the monitor is responsible for ensuring the implementation of reform efforts currently underway; developing additional strategies necessary to further the goals of the agreement; and leading data-driven assessments of NYCHA’s progress, including with respect to the obligations and metrics contained in the Agreement.[1]
SDNY and HUD anticipate that this selection will be for a five-year term beginning in early 2024. Additional detail regarding SDNY and HUD’s expectations for the position is provided in Exhibit A to this notice.
Interested individuals should submit statements of interest for appointment to the monitorship position no later than July 22, 2023. Statements of interest should be no longer than 20 pages (exclusive of exhibits), should address the applicant’s qualifications and monitoring plan, including how the applicant will successfully meet the expectations in Exhibit A, and should identify the key individuals and firms anticipated to support the monitorship. Exhibits to the statement of interest should include a preliminary proposed budget for the first year of the monitorship term and an executed version of the form attached to this notice as Exhibit B.
Statements of interest should be submitted electronically to USANYS.NYCHAmonitor@usdoj.gov; please do not submit paper copies.
[1] Materials related to NYCHA’s reform efforts are available on NYCHA’s website, at https://www.nyc.gov/site/nycha/about/reports.page
The number of New Yorkers earning less than $20,000 with a broadband subscription rose from 64% to 76% between 2019 and 2021 thanks in large part to two federal programs created to address disparities in access to high-speed internet. More than 1.3 million New York households are receiving affordable broadband subscriptions with federal support, according to a new analysis released by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.
“The critical importance of high-speed internet access became abundantly clear during the COVID-19 pandemic,” DiNapoli said. “In 2021, my office reported that about one in three low-income households lacked a connection. Thanks to these federal programs those numbers are going down. This is good news, but more work needs to be done to ensure all New Yorkers have access to high-speed internet.”
During the pandemic, the federal government established the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program to provide affordable broadband subscriptions to low-income households. The program was succeeded by the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) authorized by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Under the ACP, households at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level are eligible for up to a $30 monthly subsidy for a broadband subscription.
As of May 15, 2023, more than 1.3 million New York households enrolled in ACP, 7.2% of the total national enrollment of 18 million. The programs have helped facilitate sizable improvements in subscription rates for New York households with incomes below $20,000. In total, more than 90% of all New York households had access to broadband in 2021, up from 86% in 2019.
Analysis
Economic and Policy Insights - Making Strides on Broadband Affordability
Availability, Access, and Affordability: Understanding Broadband Challenges in New York
New York Attorney General Letitia James secured $300,000 from Sports Warehouse Inc. (Sports Warehouse), an online sporting goods retailer for failing to protect 2.5 million consumers’ personal data. Sports Warehouse, which owns the online sporting goods websites Tennis Warehouse, Running Warehouse, Skate Warehouse, and Tackle Warehouse, had poor data security that left it vulnerable to a data breach in 2021 which compromised consumers’ private information, including credit card information and email addresses for more than 136,000 New Yorkers. As a result of this agreement, Sports Warehouse must pay $300,000 in penalties to the state and strengthen their cybersecurity measures to protect consumers’ private information.
“Sports Warehouse ran its companies without the adequate gear to protect online shoppers from cyberattacks, and today they are paying the price for compromising consumers’ digital privacy,” said Attorney General James. “When we buy tennis shoes or gym clothes online, we don’t expect thieves to run off with our credit card details or other personal information. New Yorkers deserve the peace of mind that their private information is secure, and we’ll continue to go after companies that violate this right and ensure they improve their data security practices.”
In 2021, an attacker gained access to Sports Warehouse’s subsidiary servers, apparently by attempting to identify login credentials through repeated trial and error. After gaining access to the companies’ servers, the attacker created several web shells to gain remote access to the Sports Warehouse companies’ commerce server, which contained payment card information for nearly every purchase made through their websites since 2002. The investigation by the Sports Warehouse companies found that the attacker had also accessed certain customers’ email addresses and passwords. In total, the attackers potentially accessed the non-expired payment card information of as many as 1,813,224 consumers, including 101,558 New Yorkers, and the login credentials of 1,180,939 consumers, including 82,757 New Yorkers.
The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) determined that the Sports Warehouse companies failed to adopt reasonable practices to protect consumers’ personal information. In particular, OAG found that Sports Warehouse companies failed to encrypt consumers’ private information on its servers and adopt appropriate data deletion practices.
As a result of today’s agreement, the Sports Warehouse companies must pay the state $300,000 in penalties and adopt measures to better protect the personal information of consumers going forward, including:
This action builds on Attorney General James’ ongoing efforts to protect consumers’ personal information and hold companies accountable for having poor cybersecurity. Earlier this week, Attorney General James recouped $550,000 from a medical management company for failing to protect the private information of patients. Last month, Attorney General James released a comprehensive data security guide to help businesses better protect New Yorkers’ personal information. In December 2022, Attorney General James secured $200,000 from a student cap and gown producer, Herff Jones, for failing to protect consumers’ personal information. In October 2022, Attorney General James announced a $1.2 million agreement with the owner of SHEIN and Zoetop for failing to properly handle a data breach that compromised the personal information of millions of consumers nationwide. In June 2022, Attorney General James secured $400,000 from Wegmans and required the retailer to improve data storage security after a data breach exposed consumers’ personal information. In March 2022, Attorney General James issued a consumer alert advising T-Mobile customers to take appropriate steps to protect their personal information following a data breach.
