Bill > S03664

This bill establishes a water rate freeze for senior citizens in New York City by creating a new exemption for qualified homeowners from future water rate increases. Specifically, a "qualified homeowner" is defined as someone who is at least 65 years old, owns a one-to-four-family home as their primary residence, and has had a total household income under $50,000 for two consecutive tax years starting in 2019, as verified by the NYC Department of Finance. The bill provides that such homeowners will be automatically exempt from any water rate increases that occur after they become eligible. However, the commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection can suspend this exemption for up to one year in the event of a drought or other disaster that causes an immediate water shortage. Importantly, receiving this water rate exemption will not prevent the homeowner from obtaining other existing exemptions or credits. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2027, giving ample time for implementation and preparation by city agencies.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3664