Understanding Good Cause Eviction Laws in Albany and Beyond
In a landmark decision back in June, Albany became the first city in New York to opt-in to Good Cause Eviction legislation, a move that has since been followed by several other cities across the state. This legislation, which gives renters more rights and protections, has been met with both praise and confusion as landlords and tenants navigate the new rules.
Challenges in Implementation
Since Mayor Kathy Sheehan signed the Good Cause Eviction law into effect in early July, there have been challenges in ensuring that both landlords and tenants understand when the protections actually went into effect. According to Canyon Ryan, the Executive Director of the United Tenants of Albany, there has been confusion about the specific date of implementation.
Ryan shared a concerning instance where a court ruled that Good Cause Eviction was not in effect until August 15, a date that conflicts with the official signing date. This discrepancy has led to a trial to clarify the issue and ensure that tenants are not unfairly evicted due to misunderstandings of the law.
Interpreting the Law
One of the main sources of confusion surrounding Good Cause Eviction in Albany and other cities is the interpretation of the law by landlords. Some landlords have been wrongly informing tenants that they are not protected if certain actions were taken before a specific date. However, legal experts like attorney Ryan McCall argue that as long as the Good Cause Eviction law is in effect, tenants are entitled to its protections.
McCall, the principal attorney at McCall, Sweeney & Silva, emphasizes that tenants have the right to challenge rent increases or lease renewals under the Good Cause Eviction law, regardless of when these actions were initiated. While there may be initial administrative hiccups in the implementation of the law, McCall anticipates that future legislation will streamline the process and clarify any ambiguities.
Opting-In and Future Prospects
As more cities in New York consider opting into Good Cause Eviction legislation, the movement to protect renters’ rights continues to gain momentum. Hudson is poised to be the next city to opt-in, with its Common Council discussing the matter on Tuesday evening. Organizers in Troy are also actively collecting signatures in support of the measure, signaling a growing demand for increased tenant protections across the state.
In conclusion, the implementation of Good Cause Eviction laws in Albany and other cities presents both challenges and opportunities for landlords and tenants. As the legal landscape continues to evolve and clarify, it is essential for all parties involved to stay informed and comply with the regulations to ensure fair and just housing practices for all.