Bill > S04291

This bill clarifies the legal status of residents in community residences for mentally disabled individuals by explicitly stating that the relationship between a community residence operator and a resident is not a landlord-tenant relationship. The bill amends several sections of the mental hygiene law and the real property actions and proceedings law to ensure that discharging a resident or terminating a residency agreement follows specific procedures set by the Office of Mental Health or the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, rather than traditional landlord-tenant eviction processes. A "community residence" is defined according to existing mental hygiene law definitions, and the bill aims to provide clarity and protection for residents of these specialized living facilities by preventing the application of standard rental housing regulations. By making these changes, the bill seeks to recognize the unique nature of community residences that serve individuals with mental disabilities or developmental challenges, ensuring that their living arrangements are managed with appropriate considerations for their specific needs and circumstances.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4291