Bill > A01086

This bill establishes comprehensive protections for senior citizens facing eviction by amending the Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law. The bill defines a senior citizen as a person who is 62 years old or older, or who resides with a spouse of that age. When an eviction proceeding is initiated, the landlord (petitioner) must file an affidavit within 20 days before entering a judgment, either confirming that the respondent is not a senior citizen or acknowledging their senior citizen status. If the respondent is a senior citizen and does not appear in court, the court must appoint an attorney to represent and protect their interests before any final eviction order can be issued. The bill also provides the court with discretion to stay proceedings for up to three months or make other just orders to protect the senior citizen's rights. Additionally, the bill imposes criminal penalties, including potential imprisonment and fines, on individuals who knowingly file false affidavits or attempt to evict a senior citizen improperly. These provisions aim to ensure that senior citizens are not unjustly evicted and have proper legal representation and protection during eviction proceedings.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1086