New law says landlords can’t discriminate against tenants based on income

ALBANY,  N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — Under a new state law, landlords will no longer be able to discriminate against tenants based on their source of income.

Going forward, landlords are not allowed to refused people if they pay rent using Section 8 housing vouchers, veterans benefits and other lawful sources of income. 

Governor Andrew Cuomo released a statement on enduring fair housing to New Yorkers, saying, “Too often, unscrupulous landlords unfairly block seniors, single mothers, survivors of domestic violence and other New Yorkers from renting a home simply because of where they get their income, that ends today.”

Critics of the law say the refusal of tenants is so both parties aren’t put at risk if the tenant doesn’t meet expectations of the program they are apart of.