New York City Council Overrules Mayor's Veto, Halting Rent Hike for Low-Income Housing Voucher Program
In a significant victory for thousands of low-income New Yorkers relying on the city's housing voucher program, the New York City Council voted to override Mayor Eric Adams' veto of a bill that would have raised rent payments. The measure, which aims to prevent a potential rent hike for families using the CityFHEPS voucher program, is now set to become law.
The controversy surrounding the bill stems from the mayor's administration's push to increase rent contributions by households participating in the program from 30% of their income to 40%. The Adams administration argued that this increase was necessary to offset rising costs associated with the voucher program. However, the Council rejected the proposal, citing concerns about the impact on vulnerable populations.
The bill now overrules Mayor Adams' veto, halting the proposed rent hike for households relying on the CityFHEPS voucher program. This move is seen as a significant win for advocates of low-income New Yorkers, who have been vocal in their opposition to the increased rent contributions.
"This Council has been steadfast in working for the people of this city, particularly for the least of these and the most underserved populations," said Speaker Adrienne Adams. "It's unfortunate that the mayor kind of abdicates his responsibility, particularly with this legislation that we are going to override today."
The decision has been welcomed by advocacy groups, including VOCAL-NY's Homelessness Union, which has long pushed for affordable housing and rental subsidies.
"Getting people housed is not just about getting them out of shelters; it's also about helping them stay housed," said Milton Perez, a leader with the union. "This bill is all about that – it's about providing stability and security to those who need it most."
The override of Mayor Adams' veto comes amidst another contentious legislative session in New York City, where multiple bills were overridden, including measures related to pay equity and contract services.
While some have praised the Council's actions as a necessary step to protect low-income New Yorkers, others have criticized the move as an attempt to undermine the mayor's authority.
In a significant victory for thousands of low-income New Yorkers relying on the city's housing voucher program, the New York City Council voted to override Mayor Eric Adams' veto of a bill that would have raised rent payments. The measure, which aims to prevent a potential rent hike for families using the CityFHEPS voucher program, is now set to become law.
The controversy surrounding the bill stems from the mayor's administration's push to increase rent contributions by households participating in the program from 30% of their income to 40%. The Adams administration argued that this increase was necessary to offset rising costs associated with the voucher program. However, the Council rejected the proposal, citing concerns about the impact on vulnerable populations.
The bill now overrules Mayor Adams' veto, halting the proposed rent hike for households relying on the CityFHEPS voucher program. This move is seen as a significant win for advocates of low-income New Yorkers, who have been vocal in their opposition to the increased rent contributions.
"This Council has been steadfast in working for the people of this city, particularly for the least of these and the most underserved populations," said Speaker Adrienne Adams. "It's unfortunate that the mayor kind of abdicates his responsibility, particularly with this legislation that we are going to override today."
The decision has been welcomed by advocacy groups, including VOCAL-NY's Homelessness Union, which has long pushed for affordable housing and rental subsidies.
"Getting people housed is not just about getting them out of shelters; it's also about helping them stay housed," said Milton Perez, a leader with the union. "This bill is all about that – it's about providing stability and security to those who need it most."
The override of Mayor Adams' veto comes amidst another contentious legislative session in New York City, where multiple bills were overridden, including measures related to pay equity and contract services.
While some have praised the Council's actions as a necessary step to protect low-income New Yorkers, others have criticized the move as an attempt to undermine the mayor's authority.
, I think its interesting how NYC council is trying to help those in need by overriding the mayor's veto on rent hike for low income housing voucher program... it could be a good sign that they actually care about people over profits 
thinkin the city's just tryna keep up with costs & make sure ppl got a roof over their heads... can't say i agree w/ Mayor Adams' admin on it tho... 
It's disgusting. I'm glad the Council is standing up for these families and refusing to let Mayor Adams just push them around. This decision shows that they're not just talking the talk, but actually willing to listen and act on behalf of the people who need it most. 
this is so cool 
that the NYC council came together for those who need it most 
the cityfheps voucher program is literally a lifeline for people who are struggling 
and now they're going to be protected from an unfair rent hike 
thank goodness 
. A rent hike for families relying on the CityFHEPS voucher program was a recipe for disaster, and I'm glad the Council stepped in to prevent that. The mayor's plan was all about throwing people out of their homes, which isn't exactly the kind of leadership we need. At least this means low-income New Yorkers will be able to stay housed and avoid some serious financial stress 
. On the other hand, it's also a bit concerning that the Council is essentially overruling the mayor's authority... but I guess that's just politics 
I'm so here for this NYC Council decision 
! It's like they're saying, "You can't just raise rent on people who are already struggling" 
It's not like there's a housing shortage or anything... just saying.
I love it! And VOCAL-NY's Homelessness Union is doing amazing work, and this bill is a huge win for them. It's all about providing stability and security to those who need it most... that's what it's all about, fam 
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VOCAL-NY's Homelessness Union is always doing real work btw 
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Or maybe I'm just thinking too much about it...
this is amazing news for those low-income families in NYC who were gonna get hit with a huge rent hike 
it's so inspiring to see advocacy groups like VOCAL-NY's Homelessness Union making such a big difference in their community 
. It's all about providing stability and security, like Milton Perez said 
.
. Its not just about housing, its about stability and security for people who need it most 
finally someone's standin up 4 dem no one should be worried bout gettin kicked out of their home just cuz they can't afford rent 
its all about stability and security, u know? i mean what's wrong with the mayor thinkin we dont care bout our neighbors who need help 
VOCAL-NY's been fightin 4 this 4 years and it's awesome 2 see ppl comin thru 
This might just end up putting a strain on the system instead of helping those in need