Bill > S07124

This bill expands the list of qualified professionals who can verify domestic violence for tenants seeking to terminate their residential lease due to domestic violence. Currently, tenants must provide documentation within 25 days showing they or a household member are domestic violence victims, which can include protection orders, law enforcement reports, healthcare records, or written verification from a qualified third party. The bill adds several new categories of professionals who can provide such verification, including probation and corrections staff, child protective services (CPS) workers, school counselors and teachers, substance abuse treatment providers, elder and adult protective services workers, disability services providers, and staff from domestic violence prevention organizations. The verification can be a sworn or notarized statement, and the goal is to provide domestic violence victims with more options for documenting their situation when seeking to legally break a lease for their safety. This amendment to the real property law aims to give victims more flexibility and support in escaping potentially dangerous living situations.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7124