New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S08676

Introduced
1/7/26  

Caption

Provides for the eligibility of certain households for a care workforce housing preference; provides for the method of application for such preference; makes related provisions.

Impact

If enacted, S08676 will amend the private housing finance law to create a housing preference for eligible households where at least one member works in a qualifying care occupation. The provisions will apply to low-income housing developments financed with specific government-issued bonds and other affordable housing projects. The intention is to facilitate access to housing for those dedicating their careers to essential care services within the state, helping to retain and attract necessary professionals in a crucial sector.

Summary

S08676, known as the 'Care Workforce Housing Preference Act,' seeks to address the housing affordability challenges faced by New York's care workforce, which includes direct support professionals, certified nursing assistants, nurses, and various therapists. The bill aims to establish a fair-housing compliant preference for members of the care workforce in specific affordable housing programs. This initiative is vital due to the sector's critical role in providing essential services and the existing difficulty in recruiting and retaining such workers owing to housing costs.

Contention

Despite its intentions, the bill may face challenges regarding implementation and equity. Stakeholders could express concerns over how the eligibility criteria are defined and the procedures for applying the housing preference. Additionally, there is a potential contention regarding the prioritization of care workers over other low-income applicants, raising questions about fairness and equal access to limited housing resources. Discussions around this bill are likely to involve advocates for both housing and healthcare sectors, examining the balance needed to address workforce needs without denying housing opportunities to others.

Companion Bills

NY A09616

Same As Provides for the eligibility of certain households for a care workforce housing preference; provides for the method of application for such preference; makes related provisions.

NY A10445

Same As Provides for the eligibility of certain households for a care workforce housing preference; provides for the method of application for such preference; makes related provisions.

Previously Filed As

NY A09616

Provides for the eligibility of certain households for a care workforce housing preference; provides for the method of application for such preference; makes related provisions.

NY A10445

Provides for the eligibility of certain households for a care workforce housing preference; provides for the method of application for such preference; makes related provisions.

NY A10479

Relates to artist preferences in housing; provides that giving occupancy preference to individuals who are involved in artistic activities is not an unlawful discriminatory practice provided that such preference is implemented or authorized by an agency or the state of New York.

NY S09652

Relates to artist preferences in housing; provides that giving occupancy preference to individuals who are involved in artistic activities is not an unlawful discriminatory practice provided that such preference is implemented or authorized by an agency or the state of New York.

NY AB1464

Housing preferences.

NY HB1749

Creates provisions relating to veteran preferences for contracts

NY S1662

Prohibited Preferences

NY A08775

Expands the veterans' preference to include veterans who did not serve during a time of war for Mitchell-Lama housing.

NY LB144

Change provisions relating to veterans preferences for employment

NY HB1411

Relating To Housing Preference.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.