New York Assembly Bill A02101

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/25
• Refer: 1/15/25

Caption

Establishes the green affordable pre-electrification program to assist owners and tenants in residential properties in curing structural and building code defects which render the properties ineligible for improvements or projects relating to energy savings, green-house gas emissions reductions, climate change adaptation and resiliency project grants; establishes the energy efficiency and electrification interagency coordination group to coordinate between certain energy efficiency programs.

Impact

The legislation introduces specific provisions for financial awards, funding full renovation costs for lower-income households and partial funding for those earning slightly above these thresholds. Furthermore, the program is designed to operate alongside existing assistance frameworks without hindering applicants’ opportunities for other funds. By focusing on community needs and environmental remediation, this bill is anticipated to advance the state's broader climate goals, ultimately leading to substantial emissions reductions from residential buildings. Additionally, by keeping housing affordable in neighborhoods benefiting from these renovations, the bill aims to guard against displacement of current residents.

Summary

Assembly Bill A02101 proposes the establishment of the Green Affordable Pre-Electrification Program, which aims to assist owners and tenants of residential properties in addressing structural deficiencies and building code violations that could render these properties ineligible for energy-related improvements. The bill's primary goal is to provide financial support that encourages energy efficiency, greenhouse gas reduction, and general climate adaptability through corrective renovations. With a clear intention to upgrade aging housing stock, the bill promotes inclusivity by targeting low and moderate-income households and ensuring program accessibility in communities at risk of environmental hazards.

Contention

While Assembly Bill A02101 aims to foster improvements in housing conditions, it raises points of potential contention, especially regarding the scope of financial disbursement and the impacts on rental prices. Provisions that limit potential rent increases and tenant displacement for five years post-renovation have generated discussions about economic feasibility and property rights. Some stakeholders may argue that these restrictions could deter future investments in the rental market, while proponents of the bill assert that the long-term benefits—in terms of healthier living environments and overall sustainability—will outweigh these concerns. The discussions surrounding the bill signify the ongoing dialogue about balancing the needs of property owners with those of marginalized communities.