NEW YORK – Housing Justice for All, a statewide coalition of more than 80 organizations representing tenants and homeless New Yorkers, released the following statement from Campaign Director Cea Weaver in response to the 2023 Housing and Vacancy Study.
“The data shows what New Yorkers across the income spectrum know: it is nearly impossible to find an affordable apartment.
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“The rent stabilization system was created for just such a moment: with so few apartments available, tenants are being price gouged by landlords taking advantage of their desperation. Thousands of working class families are being forced to leave the city due to sky-high housing costs, and tens of thousands more are pouring more and more of their earnings into rent, at the expense of food, health care, and other necessities. Strengthening and expanding rent stabilization – as well as passing universal Good Cause Evictions – is the best way to combat rampant price gouging and evictions.
“In the face of a historic housing crisis, New Yorkers need ambitious solutions to preserve and build the housing we need. Giveaways to private developers to subsidize market rate housing and carrots for municipalities to loosen zoning restrictions won’t deliver housing for those who need it most. It’s time for the state to take an active role, through the Social Housing Development Authority, to create the permanently affordable, sustainable housing New Yorkers deserve.”
