Council also votes to establish comprehensive municipal framework to bring oversight, accountability, and transparency to City’s use of Artificial Intelligence

City Hall, NY – Today, the New York City Council approved legislation to create a legal framework for survivors seeking accountability for gender-motivated violence. In 2000, the Council passed the Gender Motivated Violence Act to give survivors the right to bring a civil suit against individuals who committed acts of gender-motivated violence. The law was updated in 2022 to, among other things, include liability for parties that participated in the crime. Over the summer, certain survivors’ claims were determined by a court to not be covered by the existing law. This legislation creates a new cause of action, laying out a legal framework to give survivors an avenue to accountability and resolution of their lawsuits.

The Council also voted to approve a package of bills establishing an Office of Algorithmic Accountability and requiring standards for city use of artificial intelligence (AI) and automated decision systems (ADS). The package is one of the first comprehensive municipal frameworks in the nation designed to bring oversight, accountability, and transparency to the City’s use of AI and ADS.

“Survivors deserve accountability,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams. “Many New Yorkers know or love someone who has been affected by gender-motivated violence. Accountability is a key part of the road to recovery and why the Council advanced this bill to empower survivors. I thank my Council colleagues for their support in passing this critical bill and supporting survivors.”  

Creating Legal Framework for Survivors to Seek Accountability for Gender-Motivated Violence

Introduction 1297-A, sponsored by Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers, would create a civil cause of action for crimes of violence motivated by gender that occurred prior to January 9, 2022. Any person claiming to be injured by a party who commits, directs, enables, participates, or conspires in the commission of a crime of violence motivated by gender may bring a civil claim against that party. The claims brought under this law must commence within 18 months of the effective date of the local law. Any person who brought a claim between March 1, 2023, and March 1, 2025, that meets the requirements of a cause of action under this law may amend or refile their claim to add a cause of action under this section.

“Intro 1297 is about restoring justice to survivors who were promised a fair chance to be heard,” said Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers. “A single court decision should not be allowed to erase hundreds of cases or shield powerful institutions from accountability. With this legislation, we are reopening a clear pathway for survivors to pursue justice and reaffirming that institutions that enabled abuse will not be allowed to hide behind technicalities. I’m grateful to the courageous survivors and advocates who pushed this bill forward — and I look forward to finally delivering the justice survivors deserve.”

Establishing an Office of Algorithmic Accountability and Requiring Standards for City Use of AI

City agencies use artificial intelligence (AI) and automated decision systems (ADS) in a variety of ways, but without a consistent and enforceable code of conduct. The following package of legislation represents one of the first comprehensive municipal frameworks in the nation designed to bring oversight, accountability, and transparency to the City’s use of AI and ADS.

Introduction 199-A, sponsored by Council Member Jennifer Gutierrez, would establish an Office of Algorithmic Accountability responsible for analyzing algorithmic tools used by city agencies, incorporating public input on tools used, and conducting corrective action related to the city’s use of an algorithmic tool.

Introduction 1024-A, sponsored by Council Member Jennifer Gutierrez,would require the Office of Algorithmic Accountability to publish a list of all artificial intelligence systems for which it has conducted a pre-deployment assessment.

“For years under this administration, agencies were left to guess their way through AI — no standards, no oversight, and no real guidance,” said Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez. “Vendors ran ahead while government stood still. The GUARD Act finally ends that. We’re giving agencies the guardrails they never had, so AI can actually help government instead of confusing it. We teach children right from wrong — but until now, our technology had no such boundaries. This package puts an end to the chaos and gives city employees and New Yorkers the accountability and clarity they deserve.”

Introduction 926-A, sponsored by Council Member Julie Menin, would require the Office of Algorithmic Accountability to establish basic compliance standards for agencies when developing, procuring, deploying, and using public-impacting artificial intelligence.

“As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into city operations, we have a responsibility to ensure it serves New Yorkers’ best interests,” said Council Member Julie Menin. “My legislation, Intro 926, creates clear, responsible standards for AI use across city agencies to ensure fairness, safeguard privacy, and increase transparency in government technology. As AI transforms decision-making processes, we cannot afford to move forward without proper oversight. I thank Council Member Gutiérrez for her advocacy to pass the GUARD Act, and I extend my gratitude to Speaker Adams for her leadership and commitment to prioritizing AI transparency in our city. This package of legislation establishes essential guardrails to protect the rights of all New Yorkers.”

Reporting on Use of 6-A Work Release Program

The 6-A Work Release Program allows the Department of Correction (DOC) to release certain individuals serving sentences less than a year under supervision with check-in requirements and connections to recidivism-reduction programs. Of the 115 people released under 6-A between 2022 and 2024, only six returned to Rikers.

Introduction 1241-A, sponsored by Council Member Sandy Nurse, would require DOC to produce a biannual report on the 6-A work release program, including the number of individuals considered eligible, accepted, and rejected from the program, disaggregated by relevant demographic characteristics.

“Safely reducing the jail population is essential to closing Rikers and moving towards Borough-based jails,” said Council Member Sandy Nurse. “The Department of Correction should be maximizing the use of the work release program, which is a critical tool for reducing violence in our jails. This bill increases accountability and allows for ongoing improvements to the program.”

Increasing Reporting on High School STEM Education

Introduction 691-A, sponsored by Council Member Farah N. Louis, would require the Department of Education (DOE) to solicit feedback from high school students about their experiences with science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education and report on the offerings and enrollment in STEM classes and extracurricular activities.

Improving Promotion of the City’s Civil Service Exams

Introduction 828-A, sponsored by Council Member Farah N. Louis, would require the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) to provide promotional materials to City University of New York (CUNY) students and recent graduates relating to careers in civil service and instructions on how to apply for a civil service position.

Introduction 829-A, sponsored by Council Member Farah N. Louis, would require DCAS to create an advertising campaign to promote civil service examinations.

“Together, Introductions 828, 829, and 691 strengthen the connection between education, workforce opportunity, and economic justice for communities that have been historically excluded from advancement,” said Council Member Farah N. Louis. “These bills expand access to civil service careers, improve transparency in recruitment, and ensure that our public schools confront the inequities that close doors to STEM fields for Black and Brown students. I am proud to advance this comprehensive package and to continue the work of building a more equitable and inclusive New York City.”

Providing Information in Salons on Gender-Based Violence Services in the City

Introduction 1216-A, sponsored by Council Member Linda Lee and Council Member Shahana Hanif, would require the Office to End Gender-Based Violence (ENDGBV) to provide hair, nail, and skincare salons with posters containing information about gender-based violence services available in the city.

“The facts are clear. There is a hidden epidemic of domestic and gender-based violence in our country,” said Council Member Linda Lee. “Int. 1216 would require the Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence to make available at no cost posters about recognizing gender-based violence to nail, hair, and beauty salons, and other cosmetology establishments across the city. As a former social worker, I know the importance of meeting people where they are. I hope this legislation raises awareness and prompts conversation about this understated crisis and connects those affected to the necessary resources and care they need. I thank Speaker Adams and my colleagues in the Council for their partnership on this vital issue.”

Increasing Voter Education for Young Adults

Introduction 441-A, sponsored by Council Member Althea Stevens, would require the Department of Education (DOE) to provide voter registration forms and materials on voting methods and accessibility options to improve young adults’ access to voter registration materials.

“With the passage of the Young Adult Voter Registration Act, we are sending a clear message to young people across this city: your voice matters, and your participation is essential to our democracy,” said Council Member Althea Stevens. “By ensuring every high school senior receives voter registration materials and accessible information, we are removing barriers and giving our youth the tools they need to shape the future of New York City. This bill may not make headlines, but it will make voters, and that is how lasting change begins.”

Developing Training for Community Entities of City Government

Introduction 1075-A, sponsored by Majority Leader Amanda Farías, would require the borough presidents, in collaboration with the Civic Engagement Commission and DCAS, to develop training materials on the legislative process and rules of parliamentary procedure. Those materials would be used to train members of Community Boards, Precinct Community Councils, Community District Education Councils, and Business Improvement Districts.

“Our Community Boards, Precinct Councils, BIDs, and Education Councils shoulder an enormous responsibility as the first point of contact for residents seeking clarity and support. Yet these civic bodies are expected to navigate complex processes without any unified training in legislative procedure, public engagement, or their role in shaping decisions,” said Majority Leader Amanda Farías.“In my own district, the absence of clear guidance led a civic institution to undergo severe administrative and operational turbulence, creating instability for the neighborhood it served. The Civic Education & Engagement Act fills this critical gap by ensuring every civic leader begins with the same foundation in process, responsibility, and structure — strengthening the civic infrastructure our neighborhoods rely on.”

Increasing Transparency for FOIL Requests

Introduction 1235-A, sponsored by Council Member Gale A. Brewer, would require the Department of Records and Information Services to create and maintain a centralized portal for Freedom of Information Law requests. The portal would be required to allow the public to submit, track, and receive updates on FOIL requests, and to view agency responses once released.

“Transparency and responsiveness are not optional in government,” said Council Member Gale A. Brewer. “The public can wait months — or even years – for City agencies to provide records requested through the Freedom of Information Law. This legislation makes the FOIL process faster and fairer. Access to information holds public officials accountable for their actions and helps educate and inform the public. By obtaining information through FOIL requests, journalists can expose corruption, misconduct, and inefficiency in public institutions.” 

Publicizing Wheelchair Repair Providers in the City

Introduction 1004-A, sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, would require the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities to publish a list of wheelchair repair providers in the city.

“For New Yorkers who use wheelchairs, a broken part is not an inconvenience, it can mean missed medical appointments, lost work, or being stuck at home,” said Council Member Mercedes Narcisse. “The provisions of Int. 1004 make it easier for people to find trusted and reliable repair service, which is essential to maintaining mobility and independence. This is a practical step that helps people stay mobile, safe, and fully connected to our great city.”

Establishing Accessibility Guidelines for Agency Documents

Introduction 163-A, sponsored by Council Member Eric Dinowitz, would require the mayor to establish accessibility guidelines for printed documents created by an agency.

“All New Yorkers deserve access to vital information and documents,” said Council Member Eric Dinowitz. “Too often, however, our documents are inaccessible to those with visual impairments, including people with disabilities and many older adults. With this legislation, we are ensuring equal access to critical government-issued, public information for everyone. This legislation will help millions of New Yorkers receive the clear, usable, and comprehensible information they depend on and deserve.”

Requiring Sellers of Vehicle Petroleum Products to Disclose Preauthorization Holds

Introduction 1049-A, sponsored by Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers, would require sellers of petroleum products for use in motor vehicles or motorboats to disclose preauthorization holds.

“New Yorkers should not be blindsided at the gas pump when temporary preauthorization holds drain their accounts or tie up the money they need for basic expenses,” said Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers. “Intro 1049 is a simple, common-sense transparency measure that protects consumers by making sure drivers know exactly when and how these holds are applied. Working families deserve clarity, not surprise charges, and this bill helps ensure New Yorkers can make informed choices about their purchases.”

Calling on State to Freeze Rent for SCRIE and DRIE Enrollees

Resolution 985, sponsored by Speaker Adrienne Adams, calls on the New York State Assembly to pass, A.7851, and the Governor to sign, S.2534/A.7851, which retroactively freezes the rent at which a Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) or Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) enrollee pays at the level it was when they first became eligible.

“Seniors and disabled New Yorkers are important members of our society and deserve to lead healthy and dignified lives,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams. “I’m proud the Council is passing my resolution to call on our partners in the state government to enact S.2534/A.7851, which ensures these New Yorkers, who often have restricted or limited incomes, can maintain safe and stable housing. This is key to empowering our seniors and disabled New Yorkers to age-in-place, and maintaining the strength of our diverse neighborhoods across the city. I thank my colleagues for their support of this critical resolution.”  

Calling for Expansion of Medicare to Include Supports for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities

Resolution 850, sponsored by Council Member Crystal Hudson, calls on the United States Congress to pass, and the President to sign, legislation that would expand Medicare to include long-term services and supports for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Calling for the Expansion of DRIE Eligibility

Resolution 106-A, sponsored by Council Member Crystal Hudson, calls on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, S.3563/A.2367, to expand eligibility for DRIE to additional qualifying household members.

Calling for the Expansion of Older Americans Act Programs

Resolution 452, sponsored by Council Member Crystal Hudson, calls on the United States Congress to pass, and the President to sign, legislation to lower the age of eligibility for Older Americans Act-supported social services and programs from 60 to 45 years for individuals living with HIV.

“As our city continues to battle the affordability crisis, we must ensure we center those with the greatest need, including older adults,” said Council Member Crystal Hudson. “Many older adults lived on fixed incomes, with their primary income source being a monthly Social Security check. Older adults in New York City who live alone earn an average of $22,900, equal to $1,900 a month. And at least 12 percent recently reported being food insecure and 7 percent paid rent or a mortgage late, putting them at risk for eviction or foreclosure. As the Trump Administration works to gut the social safety net supporting older adults, the City Council is calling on Washington to stand up for our older adults and fight for expanded resources.

“And we are asking Albany to continue partnering with us to ensure New York remains a place where any older adult can age in place with dignity,” added Council Member Hudson. “If passed, the legislation covered in these resolutions would cap rent increases for nearly 7,400 households where a family member like a grandparent has a disability but is not considered an eligible head of household, lower the age eligibility of some federal older adult programming for individuals living with HIV because they face older age-related health conditions at a younger age, and expand Medicare to cover long term care and related services to ensure older adults and people with disabilities can receive daily care. I’d like to thank Assembly Member Harvey Epstein and Senator Cordell Cleare for their work standing up for older adults and people with disabilities in Albany and urge Washington to fight for those who have spent their lives building our nation by giving them what they need in their golden years.”

Calling for Increased State Funding for ACT Teams

Resolution 736, sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Caban,calls on the New York State Legislature to introduce and pass, and the Governor to sign, legislation to increase funding for Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) teams.

“New York State must fully fund Assertive Community Treatment Teams (ACT Teams). These mobile teams meet people where they are, keep patients in their communities, and reduce costly hospital stays. ACT Teams work, but there aren’t enough of them to meet the need,” said Council Member Tiffany Cabán. “While we’ve made progress through our Crisis to Care budget initiative, the City cannot solve this alone. While we made progress through the Progressive Caucus Crisis to Care budget initiative, the City cannot solve this alone. Resolution 736 sends a clear message to the Governor and State Legislature that we need full funding for data-driven, compassionate mental health care resources.”

Calling for OSHA-10 and OSHA-30 Training to Include Mental Wellness

Resolution 1049, sponsored by Council Member Pierina Sanchez, calls on the United States Congress to introduce and pass, and the President to sign, legislation to incorporate mental wellness training within OSHA-10 and OSHA-30 training.

Declaring NYC’s Commitment to Affirm and Defend Reproductive Rights

Resolution 889, sponsored by Council Member Julie Menin, would declare New York City’s commitment to affirm and defend continued access for reproductive rights.

“As Co-Chair of the New York City Council’s Women’s Caucus, protecting reproductive rights and ensuring unfettered access to care has always been paramount,” said Council Member Julie Menin. “At a time when attacks on bodily autonomy are escalating nationwide, affirming our values here at home is essential to safeguarding those freedoms. I thank Speaker Adrienne Adams for advancing this resolution, which reaffirms New York City as a safe harbor where every person can make their own healthcare decisions free from discrimination and fear. This fight is personal for our women-majority Council and remains central to our pursuit of reproductive justice for all.”

Land Use:

5502 Flatlands Avenue Rezoning – will facilitate the development of a new five-story mixed-use building in Council Member Mercedes Narcisse’s district. The Council is modifying this application from an R6A district to an R6B district and requiring MIH Option 3 for deep affordability.

699-703 Lexington Avenue Rezoning – will facilitate the development of a new six-story building in Council Member Chi Osse’s district that will provide approximately 85 transitional shelter units and community facility office space for Providence House. The Council is modifying the application to strike MIH Option 2 and add MIH Option 3.

1551 Broadway MiD Signage Text Amendment and Special Permit – will modify signage regulations for small lots in the Theater District in Council Member Erik Bottcher’s district in order to facilitate the replacement of three existing signs at the corner of West 46th Street and Broadway.

NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln – an application to approve a ground lease for an existing three-story building to facilitate development of a community center run by NYC Health + Hospitals, accommodating a broad spectrum of neighborhood public health needs in Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala’s district.

Praise Tabernacle – will facilitate the conveyance of a small HPD-owned lot to Praise Tabernacle Church in Speaker Adrienne Adams’ district.

Landmark Designations in Manhattan’s Garment District:

• In Council Member Keith Powers’ district: Barbey Building, a Renaissance revival style with terra cotta ornament.
• In Council Member Erik Bottcher’s district: 29 Street Towers, a pair of connected 14- and 16-story Gothic Revival style commercial buildings; Fashion Tower, a 20-story garment industry showroom and office building displaying Renaissance Revival and Art Deco-style elements; Furcraft Building, a building with neo-classical design; and Lefcourt Clothing Center, a 27-story Art Deco loft building.

Finance:

Preconsidered Resolution, sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan, approving the new designation and changes in the designation of certain organizations to receive funding in the Expense Budget.

Rules, Privileges, and Elections:

The Council voted to disapprove the following mayoral appointments:

• Dr. Mitchell Katz to the New York City Board of Health
• Dr. David Chokshi to the New York City Board of Health

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