New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S09652

Introduced
3/31/26  
Refer
3/31/26  

Caption

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.

Impact

The proposed bill is expected to positively impact the housing landscape for artists in New York City. By officially allowing occupancy preferences for those involved in artistic fields, the bill aims to address the housing crisis faced by creative individuals who often struggle to secure affordable living spaces in a city known for its high cost of living. This legislative move could foster a more vibrant arts community and encourage the continuation of cultural innovation within the city.

Summary

Bill S09652 seeks to amend the administrative code of New York City to provide certain legal protections around housing preferences for individuals engaged in artistic activities. Specifically, it allows giving occupancy preference to these individuals without it being considered unlawful discrimination, provided it is authorized by a state agency. This change intends to enhance the availability of housing for artists, acknowledging their unique contributions to the city's cultural fabric.

Contention

However, the bill has been subject to various points of contention. Critics argue that providing preferential treatment based on occupation may lead to conflicts with existing fair housing laws aimed at ensuring equal access to housing for all individuals, regardless of their profession. Additionally, there are concerns regarding how such preferences would be implemented, monitored, and the potential for misuse. Advocates for fair housing warn that while the intention might be to support artists, it could inadvertently create a divisive environment among non-artists looking for housing in the same neighborhoods.

Companion Bills

NY A10479

Same As 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.

Previously Filed As

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 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 S08676

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 AB1464

Housing preferences.

NY A08699

Clarifies the standard for when a practice has a discriminatory effect; provides that an unlawful discriminatory practice may be established by such practice's discriminatory effect, even if such practice was not motivated by a discriminatory intent.

NY S08338

Clarifies the standard for when a practice has a discriminatory effect; provides that an unlawful discriminatory practice may be established by such practice's discriminatory effect, even if such practice was not motivated by a discriminatory intent.

NY S09284

Provides for the establishment of a nexus with the state of New York relating to unlawful discriminatory practices.

NY S1662

Prohibited Preferences

NY SB368

Relating to certain occupancy preferences given by developments supported with a low income housing tax credit allocation.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.