Statement from New York City Comptroller Scott M. Stringer on Historic Rent Package

“The passage of these historic bills is a victory for housing justice and for hardworking tenants across New York. I am so proud to have worked with housing activists for 20 years to right a decades-old wrong and to return power in our city to where it belongs – with the people. Our work is far from over, but these laws will make a real and tangible difference in the lives of New Yorkers, and that is something to celebrate.

“In 1997, I was one of just a dozen Democrats in Albany at the time who voted against the weakening of our rent laws through vacancy decontrol. For decades prior, rent regulations gave working New Yorkers a foothold and a future. Vacancy decontrol was a catastrophic blow to affordability in our city. After decontrol was passed, we’ve seen record levels of homelessness and record profits for landlords.

“With this landmark rent package, we’re taking a massive step forward. These new reforms will turn the tide, protect New Yorkers, preserve affordable housing, and strengthen and expand protections across our state. These critical bills will help keep New Yorkers in their homes, off the streets, and out of the shelter system.

“I applaud bold leadership in Albany for making the right choice in the fight for affordability. This could not have happened without the loud, persistent voices of thousands of activists who stood up for our communities against the real estate lobby and special interests. I look forward to continuing to work with you in the fight for the future of our City.”

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