Council also approves additional city contract payment improvements for nonprofit service providers, requiring quarterly payments for Homeless Services and Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice contracts
City Hall, NY – Today, the New York City Council voted to override mayoral vetoes of four pieces of legislation that will protect CityFHEPS recipients from rent increases, strengthen pay equity, and codify the Office of Contract Services. The bills were passed by the Council in October with veto-proof majorities.
The Council also approved additional legislation to further improve the City’s contract payment process for nonprofits, requiring quarterly payments for Homeless Services and Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice contracts. For years, the City has failed to pay nonprofit organizations with city contracts to deliver services in a timely manner. These long-term issues have resulted in service interruptions and reductions, organizations accruing debt, layoffs of staff, and even the shutting down of longtime organizations.
“These are common-sense bills to protect the lowest-income New Yorkers from rent increases, advance gender and racial pay equity, and improve the City’s contracting process to remove obstacles for nonprofits,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams. “They never should have been vetoed, and the Council is once again prioritizing New Yorkers by enacting them into law when the Mayor will not.”
Veto Overrides:
Introduction 1372, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala, would require that the rent contribution for CityFHEPS recipients not exceed 30 percent of the household’s total monthly income. This addresses proposed new rules by the Department of Social Services that would increase CityFHEPS voucher holders’ rent contributions from 30% to 40% of their gross income after their fifth year in the program, which would make them rent burdened.
“Today’s veto override sends a clear message that this Council will not allow increased rent burden on the many New Yorkers who depend on CityFHEPS to stay housed,” said Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala. “With the affordability crisis New Yorkers are facing, it is unconscionable that the mayoral administration would want to make it harder for these families to afford basic necessities or even jeopardize their housing. Thank you to my colleagues for standing up for New Yorkers and overriding this misguided veto.”
Introduction 982-A, sponsored by Council Member Tiffany Cabán, would require private employers with more than 200 employees working in the City to submit a pay data report to a designated agency to improve pay transparency.
“Eric Adams decided to use his last weeks in office to betray all women on behalf of big corporations,” said Council Member Tiffany Cabán. “His veto of the Cabán-Farías Pay Equity Package is of the working class, and especially of Black and brown women, who suffer the most from pay inequity. I am proud to override his bid to impress the billionaires he soon needs a job from.
“This historic pay equity package will require large employers to report pay data and mandate rigorous, public analysis,” added Council Member Cabán. “We have been talking about the gender pay gap for decades, but without knowing how it breaks down from job to job, industry to industry, corporation to corporation, we can’t know how best to tackle it. These bills are about accountability and equity for New Yorkers, especially the women and people of color who have been underpaid and undervalued for generations.”
Introduction 984-A, sponsored by Majority Leader Amanda Farías, would require a designated agency to conduct an annual pay equity study on private employers with 200 or more employees to evaluate the extent to which any pay disparities are based on gender and race or ethnicity.
“The veto was an attempt to set back the very communities that have been short-changed for generations — women, Latinas, and BIPOC New Yorkers who continue to face disproportionate barriers in access, equity, and opportunity,” said Majority Leader Amanda Farías. “This bill was designed to address those gaps. I remain committed to advancing policies that reflect the realities of the communities most impacted and ensuring they receive the fairness and investment they have long been denied. I was proud to vote to override this veto because inequity cannot be the status quo in NYC.”
Introduction 1248-B, sponsored by Speaker Adrienne Adams, would establish an Office of Contract Services, the head of which would be the Director of Contract Services, who would serve as the City Chief Procurement Officer. This action would codify the existing Mayor’s Office of Contract Services into the City Charter and provide it with additional powers.
Legislation:
Improving City Contract Payment Process for Nonprofits
Introduction 1392-A, sponsored by Speaker Adrienne Adams, would require quarterly payments to contractors under certain contracts with the Department of Homeless Services (DHS) and the Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice (MOCJ), and establish a pilot program for quarterly payments for other contracts. Beginning July 1, 2027, covered DHS and MOCJ contracts would receive payments of at least 25 percent of the annual contract value at the beginning of each quarter.
“Nonprofit organizations deliver essential services that are critical to the health and safety of all New Yorkers, but they can’t sustain operations or make payroll when city contract payments for their work are delayed,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams. “Late contract payments by the City have been threatening the survival of nonprofit service providers, putting the entire sector, its workforce, and all New Yorkers at risk. As I laid out in my 2025 State of the City address earlier this year, the Council is advancing reforms to address the bureaucratic issues that cause these chronically late payments and are disruptive to services for our communities. I thank the city’s nonprofit organizations for their dedication and work to support New Yorkers, and my Council colleagues for passing this critical legislation.”
Strengthening Water Safety and Awareness of Public Pool Access
Introduction 988-A, sponsored by Council Member Shekar Krishnan, would require the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) to create an online map that provides up-to-date information about swimming pools under its jurisdiction. The map would display the location, events, programs, and planned maintenance or construction projects for each pool.
Introduction 1058-A, sponsored by Council Member Shekar Krishnan, would require DPR to consult with the Department of Education (DOE) to conduct a feasibility study on how high school students could be prepared to train to become lifeguards at City-managed beaches and pools.
Introduction 1059-A, sponsored by Council Member Shekar Krishnan, would require DPR to develop and publish information about water safety and drowning prevention on their website. DPR would be required to provide written materials to the DOE for distribution to every student at the beginning and end of the academic year.
Resolution 469, sponsored by Council Member Shekar Krishnan, would recognize May 15 as International Water Safety Day.
“I’m proud that we are passing critical parts of my Water Safety package,” said Council Member Shekar Krishnan. “One death due to drowning is too much; we must take tangible steps to protect our children and community. With the passage of these bills, our New York City Council is educating our students about drowning, creating a page on the Parks Department website with a map of when pools are open, and creating a study with the Parks Department and the Department of Education so we can train and develop teenagers to become lifeguards.”
Establishing the Office of the Census
Introduction 1225-A, sponsored by Council Member Julie Menin, would establish an Office of the Census. The office would be tasked with maximizing local participation in the federal census. The work of the office would only occur during the term of the office’s director, which starts between two-and-a-half and two years before the decennial census, and ends no later than six months after the census.
“Despite every effort by the federal government to interfere in the Census and with New York City at the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic, our city, thanks to the tireless work of the census office, far exceeded expectations and achieved the highest participation rate of any major city in the nation,” said Council Member Julie Menin. “We must continue to resist any attempts to erase communities, particularly because the Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution mandates that every person be counted. Establishing a permanent Office of the Census ensures that New York City secures its fair share of resources and representation and that every New Yorker is counted. I want to thank Speaker Adrienne Adams for her leadership and partnership in strengthening the city’s commitment to equity and representation.”
Requiring Schools to Stock Safety Devices
Introduction 895-A, sponsored by Council Member Julie Menin, would require all schools to keep a minimum of one epinephrine auto-injector, or EpiPen, on-site, and a minimum of two EpiPens in every child care facility that is regulated by DOHMH.
“As a mother, I know how quickly a severe allergic reaction can turn a normal school day into a life-threatening emergency,” said Council Member Julie Menin. “No parent should ever have to worry about whether a life-saving dose of epinephrine will be available when it is needed most. I want to thank Speaker Adrienne Adams for her leadership and partnership in advancing this essential legislation to protect the health and safety of our youngest New Yorkers.”
Introduction 1002-A, sponsored by Council Member Kristy Marmorato, would require all schools to stock airway clearance devices within 180 days after they receive authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use. It would also require the DOE to report annually on the use and number of devices made available in each school building.
“Intro 1002 is deeply personal for me,” said Council Member Kristy Marmorato. “I lost my grandfather to choking, and no family should face that kind of preventable tragedy. This bill ensures every NYC school has an airway clearing device and trained staff—giving children a critical second line of defense when seconds matter. As a working mother, it brings me peace of mind, and thanks to private donations, it comes at no cost to the City. This is a win for parents, educators, and, most importantly, our children.”
Requiring Mental Health Programs in Construction Safety Training
Introduction 1384-A, sponsored by Council Member Linda Lee, would amend the definitions of “site safety training (SST) card” and “site safety training supervisor card” in the New York City Building Code to require that an applicant complete 2 SST credits related to mental health and wellness, suicide risk and prevention, and alcohol and substance use.
“Every day in New York City, construction workers strap on their hard hats and step onto job sites to quite literally build our city,” said Council Member Linda Lee. “While we recognize the dangers of falling scaffolding and heavy machinery, we too often overlook the invisible risks – crushing stress, isolation, and long hours. Int. 1384 is about saving lives by ensuring site safety training includes education on mental health, suicide prevention, and substance misuse. Construction is the backbone of our city, and these workers deserve not just our gratitude but our action. I am grateful to Speaker Adams, Chair Sanchez, and my colleagues for partnering to confront this overlooked crisis.”
Requiring Building Inspections Following 311 Complaints of Rats
Introduction 1217-A, sponsored by Council Member Susan Zhuang, would require the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) to inspect buildings within 14 days of receiving a 311 complaint relating to rats. DOHMH would publish online reports of inspections conducted and enforcement related to rats in the building.
Reporting on Park Enforcement Patrol and Park Ranger Staffing Levels
Introduction 1425-A, sponsored by Council Member Susan Zhuang, would require DPR to submit a quarterly report on the staffing levels of Parks Enforcement Patrol (PEP) officers and Park Rangers, as well as the incidents they responded to at City parks.
“New Yorkers face countless challenges. Many struggle to pay rent or feed their families while dealing with park crime and rat-infested apartments. Government cannot allow these quality-of-life issues to continue,” said Council Member Susan Zhuang. “I’m proud to advance these bills: one requiring the city to inspect rat complaints, and another giving government the data needed to keep parks healthy and safe. As elected officials, we’re here to fight for our communities, and I’m proud to lead that fight for all New Yorkers today.”
Testing High Visibility Pavement Markings
Introduction 1154-A, sponsored by Council Member Julie Menin, would require DOT to test high visibility pavement markings that could be more visible to road users in poor driving conditions.
“With more than 12 percent of car accidents nationwide caused by weather-related factors, this pilot program represents a proactive step toward preventing crashes and protecting New Yorkers on our streets,” said Council Member Julie Menin. “By leveraging innovation and evidence-based technology, we are strengthening our city’s commitment to pedestrian, cyclist, and driver safety. I want to thank Speaker Adrienne Adams for her leadership and collaboration in advancing this critical legislation to make our roadways safer for everyone.”
Extending Moratorium on Fines for Awnings and Accessory Signs
Introduction 1456-A, sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan, would extend the moratorium on fines for certain awning and accessory sign violations until 2028. This bill would also require DOB to conduct a public education campaign, including by guiding small businesses to licensed professionals capable of hanging their signs safely.
“The City of New York should not be fining small businesses for something that poses no danger,” said Council Member Justin Brannan. “We hit pause on sign violations and associated fines and fees back in 2019, when we realized the law was being weaponized by bad actors to punish businesses operating in good faith and serving, not harming, the public. I’m proud of this Council for passing this extension, and proving our commitment to working with and not against small business partners who want a safe and functional city just like everybody else.”
Providing Community Notice for Sidewalk Shed Permits
Introduction 796-A, sponsored by Council Member Althea Stevens, would require DOB to send a monthly email to all Council Members and community boards notifying them of new sidewalk shed permits that were issued during the prior month.
Providing Inventory of City-Owned Retaining Walls
Introduction 1423-A, sponsored by Council Member Althea Stevens, would require the Department of Transportation (DOT) to provide on its website an inventory of all City-owned retaining walls under DOT’s jurisdiction that are 10 feet high or greater by October 1, 2026.
Increasing Foster Youth Awareness of Higher Education Financial Aid
Resolution 843, sponsored by Council Member Althea Stevens, would call on the New York State Assembly to pass, and the Governor to sign, A5658A/S378, which directs the New York State Education Department and the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) to prepare posters and pamphlets to ensure foster youth are made aware of the higher education financial resources available to them.
“Each of these bills strengthens the foundation of a more informed, empowered, and equitable New York City,’ said Council Member Althea Stevens. “Whether we’re ensuring foster youth know about the financial resources available to them, bringing transparency to sidewalk shed permits that affect daily life, or creating a public inventory of city-owned retaining walls to protect our neighborhoods, the goal is the same: to put power back into the hands of our communities. When people have access to clear, timely information, they can advocate for themselves, demand accountability, and shape the future of their neighborhoods. This legislative package is a step toward restoring trust, uplifting voices, and making sure every New Yorker, especially those too often overlooked, has the tools to thrive.”
Establishing Base Flood Elevation and Climate Resilient Construction Standards
Introduction 1397-A, sponsored by Council Member James Gennaro, would require the Office of Long-Term Planning and Sustainability, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), and the Department of Buildings (DOB) to conduct a study to develop construction code amendments to address stormwater flood risks. It would require DOB to indicate whether a property is within the 10-year rainfall flood risk area, provide information about the risks of stormwater flooding to properties, and establish resilient construction standards for tanks in stormwater flood risk areas.
“In recent years, storms like Hurricane Ida have made it abundantly clear that flood risk is not unique to our shorelines,” said Council Member James Gennaro. “By incorporating inland flood risks into our construction rules, this bill closes a critical gap in our resilience strategy and helps protect homes, businesses, and lives from future floods. This is a common-sense measure that will make New York safer, stronger, and better prepared for the inevitable climate challenges ahead.”
Calling for State Laws to Support Mitchell-Lamas
Resolution 575, sponsored by Majority Leader Amanda Farías, would call on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, legislation providing for annual adjustments to the rental and carrying charges for Mitchell-Lama developments based on increases in the Consumer Price Index.
“The reality facing Mitchell-Lama residents right now is unsustainable: aging buildings, unpredictable costs, and an oversight system that reacts only after families are already in crisis. We’ve seen this firsthand at Jamie Towers in Soundview, where sudden carrying-charge increases were used to paper over years of financial and managerial neglect. Resolution 575 gives these developments a path out of that cycle,” said Majority Leader Amanda Farías. “By tying annual adjustments to the Consumer Price Index, we create a predictable, transparent framework that protects residents from extreme spikes while ensuring buildings have the resources to remain stable. This is how we modernize a program that has anchored working- and middle-class families for nearly seven decades — with tools that meet the reality of today’s economy.”
Resolution 1016, sponsored by Majority Leader Amanda Farías, would call on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, legislation setting the minimum notice period for rent increases to 60 days for Mitchell-Lama rental and co-op residents.
“Right now, families are already stretched thin — and sudden, unannounced rent price increases only make a bad problem worse. With federal rental assistance delayed and costs rising across the board, the last thing residents need is another shock they cannot prepare for. Resolution 1016 calls for a measure that would help relieve the pressure by guaranteeing at least 60 days’ notice before any increase takes effect,” said Majority Leader Amanda Farías. “Amid the housing crisis in NYC we must continue pushing for legislation like this because New Yorkers deserve stability, transparency, and the time to plan when faced with rental costs that could displace them indefinitely.”
Calling on MTA to Provide First Responders with Real-Time GPS Data for Buses
Resolution 498-A, sponsored by Majority Leader Amanda Farías, would call on the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to create a program that provides New York City’s first responder agencies with real-time Global Positioning System (GPS) data for all MTA buses.
“When someone calls 911 from an MTA bus, our first responders should never be searching for information the system already has. We learned that firsthand in Parkchester, where a constituent did everything right — he called for help and gave the bus number — and officers still couldn’t locate him because the MTA doesn’t share its GPS data in real time,” said Majority Leader Amanda Farías. “A secure, direct data-sharing system is a critical need; the infrastructure already exists, and major transit systems across the country are doing it. Resolution 498 closes this gap by giving first responders the real-time tools they need to reach people quickly and efficiently.”
Calling on MTA to Establish a Student Fare Program
Resolution 773-A, sponsored by Majority Leader Amanda Farías, would call on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, A.3024, which directs the MTA to establish a student fare program for trains and buses.
“When the only reliable way for a student to reach school is a $7 express bus,” said Majority Leader Amanda Farías. “That’s upwards of $2,500 a year to go to and from school — a burden no working parent should be absorbing. With Resolution 773 calling to align OMNY and the student fare system, we move one step closer to providing fare-free express bus access to the young people who rely on these routes daily.”
Calling for Increase of ELL Teachers
Resolution 54, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Diana Ayala, would call on DOE and the New York State Education Department to collaborate on and prioritize increasing the number of educators trained to work with English Language Learners, and to improve the quality and comprehensiveness of their education.
Calling for Lifeguard Certification to Substitute for P.E. Credit
Resolution 251, sponsored by Council Member Kevin C. Riley, would call on the New York State Education Department to allow a lifeguard certification to substitute for Physical Education Credit for high school seniors aged 17 years and older.
“Our communities deserve fully staffed pools and beaches, and our young people deserve access to opportunities that prepare them for success,” said Council Member Kevin C. Riley. “Resolution 251 does both. It equips our high school seniors with CPR, first-aid, and water-rescue training that can save lives, while opening doors to jobs and greater academic flexibility. Building a pipeline of trained young people strengthens our lifeguard workforce and supports safer recreation for every family. I’m proud to champion policy that protects families and empowers future leaders.”
Declaring July 26 as Haitian Konpa Day
Resolution 987, sponsored by Council Member Rita Joseph, would declare July 26 annually as Haitian Konpa Day to celebrate the legacy of Haitian music and dance in New York City’s cultural landscape.
“Kompa is more than a genre, it is a living archive of our history, our joy, and our resilience,” said Council Member Rita Joseph. “Its rhythm carries the heartbeat of Haiti, telling stories that words alone cannot capture. By officially recognizing Kompa Day, we are uplifting a musical tradition that has shaped generations and enriched the cultural fabric of our city. This resolution ensures that the legacy of Kompa; its artistry, its influence, and its undeniable power to bring people together is celebrated, preserved, and passed on. New York City is stronger, more vibrant, and more soulful because of Kompa.”
Designating November 12 as Sigma Gamma Rho Day
Resolution 1063, sponsored by Council Member Rita Joseph, would designate November 12 annually as Sigma Gamma Rho Day in the City of New York to recognize the sorority’s commitment to sisterhood, scholarship, service, and positive community impact.
“For over a century, Sigma Gamma Rho has embodied the true meaning of sisterhood, scholarship, and service while uplifting communities, empowering young people, and advancing equity through action,” said Council Member Rita Joseph. “Honoring this day allows us to recognize the profound impact the sorority has made in New York City and across the nation. Sigma Gamma Rho’s commitment to education, leadership, and civic engagement continues to inspire and strengthen our communities. This recognition is a testament to their enduring legacy and the invaluable role they play in shaping a brighter, more just future for all.”
Land Use:
1720 Atlantic Avenue Rezoning – a private application for rezoning from M1-1 to C4-4D and R7A with Mandatory Inclusionary Housing (MIH) that will facilitate the development of approximately 300 new homes in two new buildings, over 100 of which will be affordable, as well as commercial and community facility space in Council Member Chi Osse’s district. The Council is modifying the application to require MIH Option 3 Deep Affordability.
“Walk to Park” Site Selections – two applications submitted by the Department of Parks and Recreation for the site selection and acquisition of privately-owned properties to facilitate the creation of new parkland:
- Brooklyn Community District 5 Walk to Park Site Selection – will facilitate site selection and acquisition of 23 privately-owned properties in the districts of Council Member Sandy Nurse and Council Member Chris Banks.
- Queens Community District Walk to Park Site Selection – will facilitate the selection and acquisition of 22 privately-owned properties in the districts of Council Member Francisco Moya, Council Member Tiffany Cabán, and Council Member Shekar Krishnan.
Finance:
Preconsidered Resolution, sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan, would establish a new 40-year, Article XI tax exemption for two buildings in Council Member Carmen De La Rosa’s district.
Preconsidered Resolution, sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan, would establish a new 40-year, Article XI tax exemption for a six-story building in Council Member Shaun Abreu’s district.
Preconsidered Resolution, sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan, would establish a new five-year, Article XI tax exemption for a 31-story building in Council Member Erik Bottcher’s district.
Preconsidered Resolution, sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan, would establish a new 40-year, Article XI tax exemption for two buildings in Council Member Crystal Hudson’s district.
Preconsidered Resolution, sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan, would establish a new 40-year, Article XI tax exemption for two six-story buildings in Council Member Kamillah Hanks’ district.
Preconsidered Resolution, sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan, would establish a new 40-year, Article XI tax exemption for three six-story buildings in Council Member Kamillah Hanks’ district.
Preconsidered Resolution, sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan, would establish a new 40-year, Article XI tax exemption for three six-story buildings in Council Member Kamillah Hanks’ district.
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