Bill > S06772

This bill establishes a civil right to counsel for individuals facing eviction in New York state by creating the New York State Office of Civil Representation. The bill recognizes that eviction proceedings disproportionately impact low-income individuals and people of color, and aims to provide legal representation to eligible individuals in covered legal proceedings related to housing. The office will be responsible for developing programs to provide free legal representation through designated legal organizations and community outreach through designated community organizations. Eligible individuals will be notified of their right to counsel, and courts will be required to inform respondents about legal representation options. The bill mandates that lease agreements cannot waive the right to counsel and must include notice of this right. The legislation requires detailed annual reporting on the program's activities, including case outcomes, demographic information, and other key metrics. The goal is to prevent unnecessary evictions, protect housing stability, and reduce the negative consequences of housing insecurity for vulnerable populations. The bill will take effect 180 days after becoming law, with most substantive provisions taking effect five years later to allow for implementation planning.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6772