New York State lawmakers are currently considering Senate Bill S3082, also known as the “Good Cause Eviction” bill (GCE). GCE is a sweeping proposal that would apply to virtually all free-market housing accommodations in New York State; it would not apply to apartments already subject to rent regulation or owner-occupied buildings with fewer than four units (together with other very narrow exceptions). GCE’s backers and opponents are engaged in intense lobbying efforts in Albany and throughout the state.

While it is unclear whether GCE will become law, all real estate practitioners should be familiar with its provisions given its wide scope and its possible enactment. (In the interest of full disclosure, one of this column’s authors, Alexander Lycoyannis, testified before a New York State Senate committee in opposition to S3082 on Jan. 7, 2022.)