Council also passed legislation to provide free sleep apnea screenings
City Hall, NY – Today, the New York City Council passed legislation to strengthen the safety and efficiency of sidewalk shed management, including bills to shorten the duration of sidewalk shed permits and improve their designs. There are currently over 8,400 scaffolding structures across New York City, and the extremely lengthy duration of their presence negatively impacts public safety and streetscapes. The majority are concentrated in Manhattan and the average age of scaffolding in New York City is over 500 days old – 334 scaffolding structures have been in place for more than five years.
The Council also voted to establish a sleep apnea screening pilot program. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications, including cardiovascular issues, diabetes, and cognitive problems, potentially decreasing life expectancy. The program will seek to expand access to preventive medical care and improve health outcomes by providing screenings to New Yorkers at no cost, prioritizing individuals without insurance.
“Sidewalk sheds have been a pervasive problem in our city for far too long, covering our streetscape and negatively impacting public safety,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams. “The Council is proud to advance these reform laws that will improve our residents’ quality of life, make our streets more vibrant, and hasten the removal of these blights from our neighborhoods. I’m proud that, under the leadership of this Council, we are finally taking action to address these challenges.”
Strengthening Safety and Efficiency of Sidewalk Shed Management
Introduction 391-A, sponsored by Council Member Keith Powers, would require the Department of Buildings (DOB) to complete a study and recommend new sidewalk shed designs to the Council by September 30, 2025. This bill would also allow more color options for sheds, require corresponding construction fences to match the color of the sidewalk shed, increase lighting beneath sidewalk sheds, and raise the minimum height of sidewalk sheds to 12 feet barring areas where exits, light, or ventilation would be obstructed. Finally, this bill would require DOB to publicize rules on the use of containment netting as a sidewalk shed alternative.
Introduction 393-A, sponsored by Council Member Keith Powers, would reduce the duration of sidewalk shed permits for façade repairs from 1 year to 3 months, unless connected to demolition, a building alteration, or new building construction. This bill would also create new penalties for property owners who delay necessary repairs for sidewalk sheds occupying the public right-of-way. Penalties would be enforced beginning with the second permit renewal, increasing based on the size and age of the shed. When renewing a shed permit, owners must now provide proof of work done since the last renewal or provide documentation to explain any delays.
Introduction 394-A, sponsored by Council Member Keith Powers, would require DOB to review the frequency of the Façade Inspection and Safety Program (FISP) and recommend changes to the Council by December 31, 2025. This bill would also extend the inspection cycle from every 5 years to a longer interval time between 6 to 12 years and delay the first required inspection for any new building from 5 to 9 years.
“For too long, our city has been covered in over 400 miles of ugly, dingy scaffolding that impacts the experience of everyday New Yorkers, small business owners, and people coming to visit our city,” said Council Member Keith Powers. “It doesn’t have to be this way, and this package of legislation puts forward reforms to fundamentally change our approach to scaffolding while ensuring safety is still the top priority.”
Introduction 660-A, sponsored by Council Member Erik Bottcher, would double the required level of lighting under sidewalk sheds and would require that lighting under sidewalk sheds be LED lights. Additionally, this bill would require lighting fixtures within a 20-foot radius of a window or glass door to be adjustable or shielded to prevent excess brightness in surrounding homes.
Introduction 661-A, sponsored by Council Member Erik Bottcher, would strengthen enforcement of façade repairs by introducing penalties for the following: Failure to submit construction documents to DOB within 5 months of completion, failure to file necessary permit applications within 8 months, and failure to complete repairs within 2 years. Property owners would be able to request extensions by submitting documentation that proves delays are unavoidable, and penalties would be tolled until an extension is granted or denied. DOB would determine the duration of an extension based on factors including size of building, scope of repair work, and necessary materials.
“Ask any New Yorker and they’ll tell you: sidewalk sheds are the permanent guest that never leaves,” said Council Member Erik Bottcher. What was meant to be a temporary safety measure has become a symbol of dysfunction on our streets. Today, I’m proud to join Speaker Adrienne Adams and my colleagues in unveiling a bold legislative package that will finally bring accountability, transparency, and urgency to our scaffolding laws.
“With this legislation, we’re saying loud and clear: the days of scaffolding staying up for years on end are coming to an end,” added Council Member Bottcher. “We’re cutting through red tape, closing loopholes, and putting the needs of pedestrians first — without compromising safety. This is about restoring beauty, safety, and common sense to our sidewalks. It’s about proving that in New York City, we don’t have to live with problems just because they’ve always been there. This package is a game-changer for every neighborhood — and a long-overdue win for all New Yorkers.”
Establishing a Sleep Apnea Screening Pilot Program
Introduction 1047-B, sponsored by Council Member Shaun Abreu, would require the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), or another agency designated by the Mayor, to establish a 3-year pilot program that provides access to sleep apnea screenings at no cost, as well as access to home sleep apnea tests, if deemed appropriate. The bill would require DOHMH to prioritize individuals without insurance.
“Sleep is essential for our well-being, yet millions of New Yorkers unknowingly suffer from sleep apnea,” said Council Member Shaun Abreu. “As someone who was personally diagnosed with this condition, I know how transformative early detection and treatment can be. This legislation is a game-changer. By providing free screenings, home tests, and an awareness campaign, we’re giving New Yorkers the tools to detect sleep apnea early, access vital care, and improve their health. No one wants their bus driver or their child’s school teacher to be battling fatigue while they do their jobs, yet we have taken almost no steps as a city to promote better sleep health. That ends now.”
Prioritizing Services for People Living with HIV
Introduction 1194-A, sponsored by Council Member Lynn Schulman, would codify the eligibility of HIV/AIDS services to include any person living with HIV.
“For far too long, New Yorkers living with HIV have faced unnecessary barriers to accessing the critical support they need to stay healthy and stable,” said Council Member Lynn Schulman. “With the passage of Introduction 1194-A, we are ensuring that every person living with HIV—regardless of disease progression—can receive the housing, nutrition, and case management services provided by HASA. This legislation is a vital step in our ongoing fight to end the HIV epidemic and advance health equity in our city. I am grateful to Speaker Adrienne Adams, my colleagues in the Council, and the dedicated advocates who have worked tirelessly to make this a reality.”
Resolution 175-A, sponsored by Council Member Chi Ossé, calls on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, S.442/A.3355, which would amend the Social Services Law to mandate each local department of social service link persons living with HIV with benefits and services and provide that persons living with HIV who are receiving housing assistance shall not be required to pay more than 30% of household income towards shelter costs.
Calling for State Laws to Strengthen Tenant and Homeowner Protections
Resolution 119-A, sponsored by Council Member Crystal Hudson, calls on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, A.1621/S.4098, in relation to prohibiting property owners from filing eviction proceedings for tenants who reside in buildings with substantial pending housing maintenance code violations.
“The staggering cost of living in our city has forced millions to choose between paying for a place to live or other essential needs like food and medicine,” said Council Member Crystal Hudson. “With one in three New Yorkers paying almost half of their monthly income on rent, it is astounding that so many of these tenants are living in hazardous and sometimes inhabitable apartments. Every day, my office—and those of my colleagues across the city—are inundated with cases of landlords failing to address necessary housing repairs. In New York City, tenants have the right to withhold rent until their apartments meet livable standards. But, what we see so often is that despite this, those who simply exercise their rights often face eviction as retaliation from their landlords. That is why I am proud that my colleagues and I are passing Resolution 119, which calls on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, A.1621/S.4098, which would prohibit property owners from filing eviction proceedings against tenants living in buildings with substantial, unresolved housing maintenance violations. By passing this resolution, we are sending a clear message to our colleagues at the state level: the right to safe and stable housing must be prioritized.”
Resolution 246-A, sponsored by Council Member Sandy Nurse, calls on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, legislation requiring unlawful eviction cases to be heard within five days.
“When your landlord illegally kicks you out and changes the locks, the wheels of government need to move quickly to get you back into your home,” said Council Member Sandy Nurse. “The current law gives broad discretion as to when the courts can hear these cases, but these lockouts are emergencies where people have been illegally made homeless. They should have the right to have their day in court within five days, and I urge the State to strengthen these laws.”
Resolution 524-A, sponsored by Council Member Kevin C. Riley, calls on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, S.126, in relation to legal representation in certain mortgage foreclosure actions.
“No homeowner should have to navigate the devastating threat of foreclosure alone,” said Council Member Kevin C. Riley. “With foreclosures on the rise across our city, too many families, especially in Black and Brown communities, are losing their homes simply because they cannot afford legal representation. Res. 524-A urges New York State to establish the right to counsel for homeowners facing foreclosure, ensuring they have the legal support necessary to fight for their homes and financial stability. Passing this legislation would be a step forward in preserving homeownership in our city, protecting generational wealth and strengthening the economic future of our communities.”
Calling for State Laws to Improve RAD/Pact Program Transparency
Resolution 730, sponsored by Council Member Chris Banks, calls on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, legislation to conduct a thorough study on the RAD/PACT program to assess the effects of conversion on residents, and the program’s impacts on tenant rights, security, and community well-being.
Resolution 731, sponsored by Council Member Chris Banks, calls on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, legislation to implement a more robust resident engagement and voting process at each NYCHA development that is considering RAD/PACT conversion.
“As someone who got my start in tenant organizing, I am both overjoyed and proud to vote in support of Resolutions 730 and 731,” said Council Member Chris Banks. “While this is just the beginning, it marks an important step toward addressing the adverse effects that RAD/PACT conversions have had on public housing residents. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues at the state level to turn these resolutions into meaningful, tangible legislation that protects and uplifts our NYCHA communities.”
Supporting State Reforms to Improve Reentry & Reduce Recidivism
Resolution 414-A, sponsored by Council Member Sandy Nurse, calls on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, S.4795/A.5959, requiring at least one member of the State Board of Parole be a formerly incarcerated person.
“Who could be more qualified to guide parole decisions than those with firsthand experience?,” said Council Member Sandy Nurse. “Formerly incarcerated individuals intimately understand the journey of rebuilding a life after navigating the carceral system. I have the utmost confidence that they have what it takes to approach this responsibility with the empathy needed to make these life-altering decisions. For too long, our justice system has overlooked them from Parole Board appointments even as the disparities in parole approval continue to widen. We’re taking a step to change that today with the passage of Resolution 414-A, calling on the State to advance S.3746 – a bill that would require at least one member of the State Board of Parole to be a formerly incarcerated person.”
Resolution 415-A, sponsored by Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams, calls on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, S. 206-A/A.1432-A, which would remove the lifetime ban on jury duty for convicted felons and postpone jury service for any person currently incarcerated for a felony.
“A felony conviction does not inherently make a person less qualified to serve on a jury,” said Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams. “People who have served their time have paid their debt to society and should no longer be tethered to a mistake that they made for the rest of their lives. Excluding people with felony convictions only furthers the disenfranchisement of people of more color—especially Black people—as they are disproportionately likely to be criminalized, prosecuted, and incarcerated. This country has a long history of excluding Black people from juries, and lifting this ban will be a step forward for all New Yorkers. Thank you to the Speaker and the Council for recognizing this need and adopting this resolution — I hope the state will now act with urgency and resolve.”
Resolution 417-A, sponsored by Council Member Kevin C. Riley, calls on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign S4812/A5269A, which would allow for the return of fines, restitution, and reparation payments where there was an unjust conviction, in a timely manner.
“Wrongful convictions not only steal years from innocent individuals but also leave them burdened with unjust financial penalties,” said Council Member Kevin C. Riley. “Res. 417-A calls for the prompt return of fines, restitution, and reparation payments to exonerees, recognizing that justice delayed is justice denied. With this legislation, we strengthen our commitment to ensuring that those who have suffered from wrongful convictions are not further penalized. By righting these wrongs, we give individuals the support they need to rebuild their lives with dignity, stability, and a fair chance at a fresh start, reinforcing our commitment to fairness, accountability, and the rights of all New Yorkers.”
Designating March 25th as Greek Cultural Appreciation and Independence Day in NYC
Resolution 792, sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán and Majority Leader Amanda Farías, declares March 25th as Greek Cultural Appreciation and Independence Day annually in the City of New York to honor both the perseverance of the Greek people in their own fight for freedom and their integral place in our city’s culture and history.
“I’m proud to co-sponsor Resolution 792, officially declaring March 25th as Greek Cultural Appreciation and Independence Day in New York City,” said Majority Leader Amanda Farías. “This resolution recognizes the strength, perseverance, and rich heritage of the Greek community, honoring their courageous fight for freedom and their lasting contributions to our city’s vibrant cultural history. Today and every year, we celebrate the Greek community’s integral place in New York City.”
“Since the turn of the 20th century, many thousands of Greek immigrants have made their way to New York City, and a significant number of them have found a home in the heart of my district: Astoria, Queens,” said Council Member Tiffany Cabán. “Today, about 70,000 Greek New Yorkers are irreplaceable members of our city. I am proud to sponsor Resolution 792 alongside Majority Leader Amanda Farías declaring March 25 Greek Cultural Appreciation and Independence Day. This resolution honors Greece’s fight for independence and the enormous impact Greek immigrants and Greek-Americans have had on our city. March 25 is the day on which the Greek people celebrate the Greek Revolution of 1821 and greet each other by saying chronia polla, which means “live many years.” Today we recognize the Greek community in my District, the deep bond between Greece and the United States, and the social and cultural contributions of Greek Americans in New York City. Chronia polla!”
Calling for Passage of State Arts, Cultural, and Health Laws
Resolution 720-A, sponsored by Council Member Carlina Rivera, calls on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, A.50/S.1077, known as the New York City Arts Space Act, to promote the development of affordable arts spaces in New York City.
“I’ve heard loud and clear from organizations and workers in the cultural sector that rising rents and financial instability are among their most pressing challenges,” said Council Member Carlina Rivera. “Arts organizations have been in survival mode for far too long, struggling to stay afloat as market forces and inadequate support make it increasingly difficult for artists and cultural workers to build sustainable careers. The New York City Arts Space Act would help bolster one of our greatest assets and ensure that New York can remain a place where artists can thrive.”
Resolution 721-A, sponsored by Council Member Lynn Schulman, calls on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, S.1804/A.128, legislation that would eliminate deductibles, copayment, coinsurance, or any other cost-sharing requirements for asthma inhalers.
“No New Yorker should have to choose between breathing and affording their basic needs. Yet, for far too many, the cost of lifesaving asthma inhalers remains out of reach—especially in the communities hardest hit by this disease,” said Council Member Lynn Schulman. “By eliminating copays and other cost-sharing requirements, we can ensure that every person who needs an inhaler can get one without financial hardship. I urge the State Legislature and Governor Hochul to pass this critical bill and make affordable respiratory care a reality for all.”
Resolution 722-A, sponsored by Council Member Lynn Schulman, calls on the United States Congress to reintroduce and pass, and the President to sign, H.R. 2665, the Supporting Safety Net Hospitals Act, to delay Medicaid disproportionate share hospital payment reductions until Fiscal Year 2026.
“Safety-net hospitals are the backbone of our healthcare system, providing care to millions of New Yorkers regardless of their ability to pay,” said Council Member Lynn Schulman. “Slashing the federal funding that keeps these hospitals afloat would be catastrophic—forcing service cuts, staff layoffs, and longer wait times for the most vulnerable in our city. We cannot allow this to happen. Congress must act immediately to delay these cuts and protect the essential care that so many depend on.”
Land Use:
H+H Operating Agreement – would approve the transfer of eight City-owned properties to the New York City Health & Hospitals Corporation, pursuant to the terms of the 1970 Operating Agreement between the City and Health & Hospitals. The properties are located in the districts of Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala, and Council Members Chris Marte, Eric Dinowitz, Althea Stevens, Crystal Hudson, Chi Ossé, and Chris Banks.
581 Grant Avenue Development – an HPD application to facilitate the development of a new seven-story affordable housing building on a city-owned parking lot adjacent to the Grant Avenue A train station, in Council Member Sandy Nurse’s district. These applications involve a rezoning, zoning text amendment, and Urban Deveopment Action Area Project (UDAAP) designation. The proposed development will include 213 affordable rental units to be developed under the Extremely Low and Low-Income Affordability (ELLA) term sheet. The Council is modifying the application by removing MIH Option 2 and adding MIH Option 3 for deep affordability.
123-12 Sutphin Boulevard Rezoning – would facilitate the development of a five-story building with residential and community facility uses in Speaker Adrienne Adams’ district. The Council is modifying the application from an R6A district to a mix of R6D and R6B districts, and removing MIH Option 2 while adding MIH Option 3 for deep affordability. The resulting development will have 111 residential units, approximately 28 of which will be affordable under MIH. The project is a collaboration between the Full Gospel Mission Church of God in Christ and SR Equities, and includes 10,000 square feet of community facility space, including a new sanctuary for the church. The building will feature a rooftop recreation space, and the development team plans to collaborate with students and teachers at P.S. 223Q to create public artwork facing the school.
547-Seat Primary School Facility – an acquisition by the NYC School Construction Authority of four privately owned lots as a proposed site for a new primary school facility at 1631-1659 Zerega Avenue in Majority Leader Amanda Farías’ district.
Brook 156 – would amend an HPD project to permit commercial or community facility uses within a previously-approved multi-family building in Council Member Rafael Salamanca’s district.
West 128/129 – an HPD application to facilitate the preservation and rehabilitation of four city-owned buildings with 96 affordable homeownership units under the ANCP program, with designation of a UDAAP, in Council Member Yusef Salaam’s district.
Finance:
Preconsidered Resolution, sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan, establishing a new 40-year Article XI tax exemption for three lots in Council Member Shaun Abreu’s district.
Preconsidered Resolution, sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan, establishing a new 40-year Article XI tax exemption for one lot in Council Member Crystal Hudson’s district.
Preconsidered Resolution, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala, regarding the establishment of the East Harlem 125th Street Business Improvement District in Manhattan and setting the date, time, and place for a public hearing on its establishment.
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