Assemblyman Karl Brabenec (R,C-Deerpark) criticized bill A.07175-A, which extends the moratorium of the eviction of delinquent tenants who have not paid rent throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Brabenec and others in the Assembly Minority recognize the intention behind this action, but strongly believe that constant extension of eviction moratoriums does not address the underlying problems.

Last week, members of the Assembly Minority Conference held a press conference with numerous New Yorkers who have been directly harmed by the eviction moratoriums. Brave and emotional advocates explained how the inability to evict tenants who refused to pay rent has caused them themselves to be unable to pay their bills.

The major criticisms levied against the Majority lawmakers’ eviction moratorium extensions include direct negative effects on small housing providers and the short-sightedness and lack of comprehensive issue resolution.

“This policy was a disaster from the beginning and the fact that Majority members in the Legislature continue to kick the can down the road should tell you all you need to know about their commitment to finding a meaningful solution,” said Brabenec. “I strongly oppose this bill and will continue to oppose extensions to this terrible policy.

“Many small- and medium-sized housing providers rely on the revenue from their properties to pay their own bills. The longer we allow delinquent tenants to avoid being evicted, the more problems we create for both the landlords who may not be able to pay utility or improvement costs, as well as the tenant themselves, whose debt only continues to compound the longer they go without pay.” 

“This is yet another example of meaningless legislation from New York City politicians who completely disregard the consequences of their actions.”