Housing

This bill amends New York City's administrative code to define illegal housing conversions as a form of harassment. Specifically, it adds two new provisions: (1) splitting apartments or altering buildings without permits (e.g., moving walls, subdividing rooms), and (2) occupying units that violate multiple dwelling laws. These changes directly affect tenants experiencing unsafe or illegal housing modifications by landlords and provide a clearer legal basis for reporting such violations as harassment. The bill expands existing harassment protections to cover specific housing code violations without altering broader policy outcomes.

This bill extends the deadline for New York's COVID-19 emergency rental assistance program from September 30, 2024, to September 30, 2025. It directly affects renters experiencing housing instability during the pandemic and local governments administering the program. The key provision amends the existing law to delay the expiration of program funding and operational provisions by one year, ensuring continued access to rental aid.