Bill > A01535

This bill enacts the "Tenants Organizing Act," which significantly expands tenants' rights to form and participate in organizations within rental properties. The bill defines a "tenants' organization" as a bona fide group representing tenants in a rental property with five or more units, and outlines specific protections and rights for such organizations. Tenants can now engage in various organizing activities, including conducting door-to-door surveys, distributing literature, convening meetings, and acting on behalf of tenants' common interests. Landlords are prohibited from interfering with or harassing tenants who participate in these organizations. The bill allows tenants' groups to meet in common areas without paying fees and to invite outside guests like elected officials, service providers, and housing lawyers to their meetings. Additionally, tenants can establish an organization by submitting a petition to their landlord, and landlords are required to confer in good faith with tenant organizations, including attending at least one meeting every six months. The legislation aims to protect tenants' rights to organize and communicate collectively about housing conditions and community issues, providing a formal framework for tenant-landlord interactions.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1535