Judge Rules Against NYC Council's Expansion of Rental Assistance Program

Court sides with Mayor Adams, stating only state agencies can alter CityFHEPS eligibility, blocking reforms aimed at aiding tenants facing eviction.

Manhattan Supreme Court Judge Lyle Frank ruled the City Council overstepped its authority in expanding the CityFHEPS program.
The ruling indefinitely blocks the Council's legislation, which aimed to make more New Yorkers eligible for rental assistance.
Mayor Adams argued the reforms would cost $17 billion over five years, a figure disputed by the Council.
The Legal Aid Society, which filed the lawsuit, is considering an appeal, citing the ruling's impact on low-income residents.
CityFHEPS currently requires applicants to enter a shelter before receiving aid; the blocked reforms sought to change this requirement.