Bill > S07320

This bill addresses discriminatory practices in real estate appraisals by expanding legal protections and enforcement mechanisms. It defines "real estate appraisal" broadly to include all oral and written communications related to property valuation, and explicitly prohibits discrimination in appraisal services based on protected characteristics such as race, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status, age, disability, marital status, and familial status. The bill allows the state to impose fines up to $2,000 on appraisers who engage in discriminatory practices, with half of those fines being directed to an anti-discrimination in housing fund. The legislation empowers the Department of State to investigate, suspend, revoke, or fine appraiser certifications for discriminatory actions, and ensures that appraisers receive proper notification and an opportunity to be heard before disciplinary actions. Additionally, the bill expands the anti-discrimination in housing fund's purpose to include not just fair housing testing, but also broader efforts like outreach, education, investigating complaints, and addressing discrimination in appraisals. The goal is to promote fairness and prevent biased property valuations that could disadvantage certain groups in the housing market.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7320