Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz is pleased to announce that Governor Pataki has signed legislation that he sponsored that would increase eligibility for the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) from $20,000 to $24,000 annually.

Applicants for a rent exemption must live in a rent controlled, regulated or stabilized apartment where the monthly rent exceeds one-third of the monthly household income. To be eligible for SCRIE, one must be 62 years of age or older.

Before the legislation takes effect, the New York City Council must adopt a similar version of the bill locally, to allow the New York City Department for the Aging to pay the additional increases to property owners.

"This legislation will help people living on fixed incomes maintain their independence. For years, the Assembly has passed legislation raising the income limit for SCRIE. I am glad that this measure has finally passed the Senate, and that Governor Pataki has signed it into law. I call on the City Council to act immediately to put this new, higher limit into effect in New York City," said Dinowitz.

For more information on the SCRIE program, or to apply for SCRIE, contact Assemblyman Dinowitz' office at (718) 796-5345 or visit at 3107 Kingsbridge Avenue.