Bill > S04058

This bill creates a new framework for approving low or moderate income housing developments by establishing a streamlined process for zoning board applications and appeals. The bill defines low or moderate income housing as developments where at least 25% of units are affordable to households earning up to 80% of the area median income, or 20% of units are affordable to households earning below 60% of the area median income. Local zoning boards of appeals will now have the authority to review and approve housing development applications in a single process, with the requirement to hold a public hearing within 30 days of receiving an application. If a local board denies the application or imposes conditions that make the project economically unfeasible, the developer can appeal to a newly created state zoning board of appeals within the Division of Housing and Community Renewal. The state board can overturn local decisions that are not consistent with regional housing needs. Additionally, the bill directs the division to conduct a study on aligning low-income housing tax credit allocation with the new zoning application process, with a report to be submitted within one year of the act's effective date. The legislation aims to streamline affordable housing development by reducing local barriers and creating a centralized appeals mechanism.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4058