Bill > S00072

This bill establishes the Housing Access Voucher Program, a new rental assistance initiative designed to help individuals and families who are homeless or facing imminent loss of housing. The program will provide housing vouchers to eligible individuals and families with incomes at or below 50% of the area median income. The commissioner of housing and community renewal will implement the program by designating local housing access voucher administrators in each county to distribute vouchers and manage program details. Key provisions include allowing vouchers to be used statewide (after an initial one-year period in the issuing county), providing rental assistance that covers the difference between a reasonable market rent and what the recipient can afford (typically 30% of their adjusted income), and prioritizing assistance for homeless individuals. The program includes comprehensive definitions of homelessness and imminent housing loss, which are broad and inclusive, covering situations like living in temporary shelters, at risk of eviction, or fleeing dangerous living conditions. Local administrators can rely on certifications from social service providers to determine eligibility, and the program emphasizes promoting housing choice and fair housing principles. Funding will be allocated proportionally based on the number of severely rent-burdened households in each county, with up to 10% of funds available for administrative expenses.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S72