Bill > A07982

This bill, known as the "small home owner and tenant fairness act," amends the real property actions and proceedings law to establish specific timelines for resolving legal petitions involving residential properties. For dwellings with two units or less, the bill requires courts to render a final judgment within six months from the date the legal issue is joined (meaning the point at which the parties have formally presented their initial arguments and the core dispute is defined). For dwellings with three or four units, the timeline is extended to twelve months from the same point. Importantly, the bill includes a provision allowing parties to mutually agree to waive these time requirements, providing some flexibility in the legal process. The goal appears to be expediting resolution of property-related legal disputes, particularly for smaller residential properties, potentially reducing the time and cost associated with such legal proceedings for property owners and tenants. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7982