Council also passed legislation to strengthen deed theft protections

City Hall – Today, the New York City Council voted on legislation to improve the Department of Correction’s responses to incidents of sexual violence. Two bills require DOC to improve its reporting and tracking of incidents of sexual violence and harassment to protect staff and those in custody within city jails. The New York City Department of Correction (DOC) has long faced scrutiny for sexual misconduct and violence in the city’s jails. Over 700 women alleged being the victim of sexual abuse at Rikers Island last March and over 100 new lawsuits were filed alleging sexual abuse in juvenile jails citywide in recent weeks. Staff in the jails on Rikers have also long reported sexual violence and harassment, but DOC does not publicly report on these incidents or their investigations of them.

“For too long, the culture of sexual violence and harassment in the city’s jails has harmed officers and those who are detained alike, undermining public safety,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams. “Our city must reform its responses to these unacceptable incidents more seriously. Improving transparency when sexual violence occurs, ensuring access to mental health resources, and shifting to modernized systems to better track investigations of allegations are important steps forward. These bills are long overdue, but they are critical in our efforts to better protect staff and those in custody in city jails.

The Council also passed legislation to strengthen protections against deed theft, which stem from Speaker Adrienne Adams’ 2024 State of the City Address, during which she identified combatting deed theft and preserving homeownership as a top priority.

Improving the Department of Correction’s Response to Sexual Violence in City Jails

Introduction 735-B, sponsored by Council Member Althea Stevens, would require the Department of Correction (DOC) to report annually on alleged incidents of sexual violence and harassment of DOC and Correctional Health Services (CHS) staff by incarcerated individuals or other staff that occurred in the previous year. The DOC Commissioner would also be required to report annually on DOC’s investigations of these incidents. Additionally, the Commissioner would be required to ensure staff have access to mental health treatment resources, and to publicize available resources.

“This bill is not just about reports and statistics—it’s about accountability, protection, and compassion,” said Council Member Althea Stevens. “The violence and harassment these staff members, especially women endure cannot go unchecked for any longer, and that sentiment stands for every industry. It doesn’t matter if you are entry-level or a seasoned executive, everyone deserves an environment where they feel safe, valued, and respected as an individual.”

Introduction 792-A, sponsored by Council Member Carlina Rivera, would require DOC to use an electronic case management system to track investigations of sexual abuse.

“Accounts from survivors and the staggering number of lawsuits filed under the Adult Survivor Act makes it clear: sexual abuse in New York City’s jails is an epidemic that has been ignored for far too long,” said Council Member Carlina Rivera. “Survivors deserve justice and should never feel that their pain has been forgotten or dismissed. My legislation will ensure that reports of sexual abuse within the Department of Correction are tracked, investigated, and addressed without delay. It is time for this administration to take responsibility and enact real reforms to protect individuals who are incarcerated.”

Strengthening Deed Theft Prevention

New York City neighborhoods, particularly those with significant rates of Black and Latino homeownership, have increasingly been targeted by deed theft. These property-related scams that occur when someone illegally transfers ownership of a property by falsifying documents, forging signatures, or using other deceptive tactics threaten the loss of prized assets. The predatory schemes undermine the transfer of hard-earned generational wealth within families already disproportionately affected by racial wealth gaps.

The two bills voted on by the Council are part of ongoing efforts to prevent deed theft, including the Council’s collaboration with local law schools and pro bono attorneys to provide free estate planning resources to New Yorkers in all five boroughs.

“Today, I’m also proud that the Council is passing legislation I first envisioned in my 2024 State of the City to strengthen our efforts to prevent deed theft,” added Speaker Adams. “Homeowners, particularly in communities of color, have disproportionately been subjected to threats that rob our older adults and their families of their prized assets. These predatory actions often result in the loss of generational wealth in communities already disproportionately harmed by the racial wealth gap. With the passage of these crucial bills, the Council is building on its record of prioritizing homeownership and protecting homeowners in our neighborhoods.”

Introduction 888-A, sponsored by Council Member Crystal Hudson, would require that when a purchaser submits an offer to buy certain residential property that the owner has not listed for sale, is not actively selling, or did not intend to sell, the purchaser must disclose, in writing, in a clear and conspicuous manner, the estimated market value of the residential property. Any purchaser who violates this law is liable for a civil penalty of not more than $500 for the first violation and not more than $1,000 for a subsequent violation. Each distinct offer that violates this law is considered a separate violation.

“Housing costs in our city are at an all-time high, leading to a surge in predatory real estate practices that disproportionately target long-time homeowners,” said Council Member Crystal Hudson. “Unsolicited housing offers, often promising quick cash to asset-rich but cash-poor individuals, exploit vulnerable New Yorkers—especially older adults on fixed incomes—by purchasing homes far below market value and ultimately scamming them out of their properties. The City Council must do everything in our power to protect those being systematically targeted and displaced. That’s why I am proud to stand with my colleagues in passing Int. 888-A, which requires purchasers making unsolicited offers on unlisted residential properties to disclose the estimated market value in writing, and includes violations of the law subject to civil penalties and legal action by the property owner. This common-sense measure provides a crucial safeguard against bad actors preying on homeowners, ensuring we take meaningful action to protect New Yorkers and their homes.”

Introduction 901-A, sponsored by Council Member Kevin C. Riley, would require the Office of the Homeowner Advocate to consult with the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection to provide support and counseling to homeowners and their heirs in order to protect their asset. Supports include financial planning, mortgage counseling, and scam prevention.

“Owning a home is one of the greatest achievements and sources of generational wealth for families across our city, but too many homeowners and their heirs struggle to access the resources needed to protect their investments,” said Council Member Kevin C. Riley. “By strengthening collaboration between the Office of the Homeowner Advocate and the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, we are ensuring that homeowners receive the financial guidance, mortgage counseling, and scam prevention support they deserve. Int. 901 is about keeping New Yorkers in their homes, preserving assets for future generations, and fostering economic stability in our communities.”

Increasing Street Maintenance Efficiency

Introduction 552-A, sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan, would require the Department of Transportation (DOT) to coordinate with all relevant entities, including utility companies, when performing resurfacing work. It would also require DOT to complete resurfacing work within 15 business days after the completion of milling work, where practicable. If the work cannot be done within this time, DOT would be required to post a notice on its website and provide email notice to the affected community board explaining why additional time is needed and the new expected date of completion.

Introduction 1160-A, also sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan, would require DOT to ensure that all pavement markings or temporary markings are installed on a street within 5 business days after the street is resurfaced. The bill would also require an annual report on March 1st of each year from DOT on the number of streets where pavement markings were installed, the percentage of which were installed on time, and any reason for delay.

“Street milling, repaving, and infrastructure work is a good and necessary thing. But we can and should do a better job delivering it. In the 21st century, there is no reason our communities should have to walk, run, bike, and drive for weeks on end on roads that look and feel like the surface of the moon,” said Council Member Justin Brannan. “Just as there is no equitable government without effective government, there is no street safety or accessibility without efficient street work. Closing up and repainting streets in a timely manner must be a priority—not an afterthought. These delays create hazards for pedestrians and cyclists, frustrate drivers, and leave our neighborhoods looking neglected. We can do better, and we must.”

Connecting High School Students to School Journalism Educational Opportunities

Introduction 1057-A, sponsored by Council Member Rita Joseph, would require the Department of Education to issue an annual report on journalism courses, journalism clubs, and student publications available at each DOE high school during the previous school year. High schools would be also required to distribute information to students regarding the availability of journalism clubs and student publications at the beginning of the school year.

“As a forever educator, I know firsthand the power of student journalism in fostering critical thinking, civic engagement, and a free exchange of ideas,” said Council Member Rita Joseph. “Every student should have access to the resources and opportunities needed to develop their voice, whether through a journalism course, a student-run publication, or a school newspaper club. Int.1057 ensures transparency and accountability in expanding student journalism programming across our public high schools. By requiring annual reporting and proactive outreach, we are taking a crucial step toward empowering the next generation of reporters, writers, and truth-seekers. A thriving democracy depends on an informed and engaged society, and that starts with our young people.”

Improving Awareness of After-school Programming for Public School Families

Introduction 432-A, sponsored by Council Member Pierina Sanchez, would require the Department of Education, in consultation with the Department of Youth and Community Development, to distribute information about after-school programs to students and parents.

“Students across New York City deserve access to enrichment opportunities that allow them to become the fullest version of themselves,” said Council Member Pierina Sanchez. “But too often, families are unaware that these opportunities exist. Today, through Int. 432, the Council is making strides to ensure nearly 1 million young people and their families receive information about after-school and enrichment programs available to them. For the first time in NYC history, starting this fall at every public K-12 elementary, middle, and high school, NYC will be required to provide every student with a printed and digital copy of afterschool opportunities available to them, either funded by NYC Public Schools or the Department of Youth and Community Development. In a city as well-resourced as New York City, there’s no excuse for any student, parent, or guardian to miss out for lack of information.”

Expanding Access of City Services to Deaf and Hard of Hearing People

Introduction 138-A, sponsored by Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers, would require the establishment of a program to provide public service announcements in American Sign Language (ASL), with accompanying captions, for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. These announcements would be displayed on advertising structures such as LinkNYC kiosks and would include, among other things, information on the availability of text-to-911 and video relay services. The bill also requires a report assessing the effectiveness of the program.

“Access to information is a fundamental right, and for too long, the deaf and hard-of-hearing community has been overlooked in public messaging,” said Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers. “Intro 138 ensures that critical services like Text-to-911 and video relay services are widely promoted through accessible public service announcements in American Sign Language with captions on LinkNYC kiosks. This bill is a step toward a more inclusive city where all New Yorkers, regardless of ability, can stay informed and safe. I thank Speaker Adrienne Adams, Chair Jennifer Gutiérrez, and the advocates who have championed this issue for their leadership and support.”

Introduction 646-A, sponsored by Council Member Kevin C. Riley, would expand the reporting requirements for the implementation of next generation 911. The annual reports will now include information on efforts to hire or retain an expert on accessibility for the deaf and hard of hearing community to assess the requirements for implementation of next generation 911, information on the qualifications of any such experts hired or retained, and a description of any plans for informing the deaf and hard of hearing community on the availability of next generation 911, including text to 911.

“Enhancing our city’s emergency response services means ensuring that all New Yorkers, including individuals with disabilities, have equitable access to life-saving resources,” said Council Member Kevin C. Riley. “Int. 646 strengthens our commitment to accessibility by expanding reporting requirements to include outreach efforts for hiring and retaining experts who understand the needs of the Deaf, Blind, and hard of hearing communities. By prioritizing inclusivity in emergency response and public education, this bill helps ensure that services like Text-to-911 are fully accessible, empowering those who may be unable to communicate verbally in crises. This initiative is a necessary step toward building a safer, more responsive city where no one is left behind in an emergency.”

Land Use

122-03 14th Avenue Rezoning – a private application to facilitate the development of a new six-story, mixed-use building with 103 residential units – at least 25% of which will be affordable under MIH – and ground floor retail space in the College Point neighborhood of Council Member Vickie Paladino’s district.

49-39 Van Dam Street Demapping – a private application to amend the City Map to eliminate, discontinue, and close an unbuilt portion of Gale Avenue to facilitate the development of an outdoor dining area in Council Member Julie Won’s district. The Council will be voting on a resolution to disapprove this application.

2185 Coyle Street – will facilitate the development of a new nine-story, mixed-use building with ground floor commercial space and over 400 housing units, 25% of which will be affordable under MIH Option 1, in the Sheepshead Bay neighborhood of Council Member Mercedes Narcisse’s district. The Council is modifying the application to ensure that the height permitted by the zoning more closely reflects the height of the proposed development and to establish MIH Option 1 and the Deep Affordability Option as the available MIH Options.

438 Concord Avenue Rezoning – will facilitate the development of a ten-story, mixed-use building with manufacturing space, commercial space, community facility space, and 43 parking spots in Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala’s district. The Council is modifying the application to require MIH Option 1 and the Deep Affordability Option as the available MIH Options.

Landmark designation for the Jacob Day Residence, a three-story, Greek revival style house in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of Council Member Carlina Rivera’s district. From 1857 to 1884, the Jacob Day Residence was used as a home and place of business by Jacob Day, an advocate for the abolition of a slavery and the successful owner of a catering company at a time when Black men had limited business opportunities.

455 First Avenue Rezoning – will facilitate the development of a new commercial life sciences building in the Kips Bay neighborhood of Council Member Carlina Rivera’s district. The project is on the current site of the New York City Public Health Laboratory, which will be moving to a new building at the Harlem Hospital Center.

SPARC Kips Bay – an application to facilitate the redevelopment of the Hunter College Brookdale Campus into a state-of-the-art life sciences campus with facilities for several CUNY institutions, a public high school focused on health care and sciences, and two commercial life sciences buildings with dedicated space for New York City Health + Hospitals (H+H) and the Office of Chief Medical Examiner, in Council Member Keith Powers’ district. The proposal will also facilitate the demolition and reconstruction of a pedestrian bridge over the FDR Drive, which will connect the Waterside Plaza with the campus’s open space and convert the bridge to be ADA compliant.

Finance:

A resolution to approve a budget modification pursuant to the New York City Charter.

A transparency resolution approving the new designation and changes of certain organizations receiving funding in the Expense Budget.

A preconsidered resolution, sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan, establishing a new 40-year Article XI tax exemption for four lots in Council Member Pierina Sanchez’s district.

A preconsidered resolution, sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan, establishing a new 40-year Article XI tax exemption for four lots in Council Members Oswald Feliz’s and Althea Stevens’ districts.

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