Bill > S05280

This bill amends the real property tax law to require the entity administering the tax abatement program for rent-controlled and rent-regulated properties occupied by senior citizens or persons with disabilities to provide robust language access services. Specifically, the bill mandates that the administrative entity must: (1) translate all necessary program documents, including forms and instructions, into the six most common non-English languages spoken in the municipality; (2) offer interpretation services upon request, allowing individuals to communicate with the program administrators in their primary language; and (3) provide additional assistance services for individuals with partial or total deafness, blindness, speech impediments, or cognitive impairments. The goal of these provisions is to ensure that individuals with limited English proficiency or communication challenges can fully understand and effectively participate in the tax abatement program, thereby improving accessibility and reducing potential barriers to accessing important housing-related benefits. The act is set to take effect immediately upon its passage.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5280