“When the COVID-19 pandemic began 17 months ago, the Legislature put in place an eviction moratorium to ensure no New Yorker would be left homeless due to a pandemic-related loss of employment or income. After 17 months and extended eviction moratoriums, the financial implications of these extensions have taken a severe toll on our landlords, andtenants that were
in need of assistance.

“When the moratorium was put in place, it was meant to ease the unforeseen challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and provide financial support through the Emergency Rental Assistance Program. Our small landlords support our community by purchasing from local vendors and employing local contractors and beautifying neighborhoods. However, many have been covering expenses out of pocket for nearly a year and a half while dealing with a significant loss of income.

“The moratorium has gone on long enough, which is why I voted against extending this legislation earlier this year (Ch. 105 of 2021) and voted against the bill before us today (A.4001). It’s critical that we help restore balance to the housing market and help ensure we’re not punishing landlords for a situation that is outside of their control.”