New York Senate Bill S08960

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/26
• Refer: 1/21/26

Caption

Provides for a moratorium on evictions during extreme weather conditions, and the 72-hour period following such conditions.

Impact

If enacted, S08960 would significantly change current state laws concerning tenant evictions. The bill not only protects renters during extreme weather but preserves their rights to continue living in their residences without the threat of eviction during defined hazardous conditions. For landlords, while they can still initiate eviction proceedings, actual enforcement of such measures would be temporarily halted. Moreover, the bill establishes a private right of action for tenants unlawfully evicted during these conditions, empowering tenants legally against wrongful removals while reinforcing the seriousness of adherence to these protections.

Summary

Bill S08960, known as the 'Extreme Weather Tenant Protection Act', aims to establish a statewide moratorium on evictions during extreme weather conditions in New York. The legislation emerged in response to alarming data indicating that extreme heat and severe weather events pose serious risks to the health and safety of residents, particularly low-income and heat-vulnerable populations. The bill defines extreme weather conditions and prohibits the enforcement of eviction warrants during such events, with an automatic stay on any pending evictions when a weather alert is issued. This formalizes what has been an ad hoc approach to eviction suspensions during severe weather.

Contention

Discussion surrounding S08960 is likely to highlight the ongoing debate between tenant rights and landlord interests, with potential pushback from those who view the moratorium as an overreach that may impact landlords' abilities to manage their properties effectively. Supporters argue that the protection is necessary given the rising frequency of extreme weather events, as evidenced by statistics on heat-related evictions and health risks. Conversely, opponents might contend that such measures could lead to increased financial burdens on landlords and discourage investment in rental properties, further complicating the housing issue in New York.