Housing Justice for All, a statewide coalition of over 80 grassroots tenant organizations, The Legal Aid Society and others announced today that multiple mayoral candidates and 52 New York City Council candidates have endorsed “Right to Remain” (S3082/A5573) legislation, formerly known as Good Cause Eviction, by taking a local pledge of support, reports City & State’s Campaign Confidential.

This comes after a recent poll conducted by Data for Progress shows that roughly 70% of New Yorkers support tenants having a right to lease renewals and limits in rent increases, protections afforded by the “Right to Remain” legislation.

The “Right to Remain” bill gives tenants the right to a renewal lease, forbids landlords from “unconscionable” rent increases, and prevents arbitrary evictions. It gives tenants the right to organize for safe living conditions, dignity, and stability in their homes.

By taking the “Right to Remain” pledge of support, candidates affirm their support that all tenants, no matter what size building they live in or what the rent may be, deserve protections from evictions. Specifically, candidates pledged that, if elected, they will:

• Make the “Right to Remain” bill (S3082/A5573) a top priority in Albany and work with tenants, homeless New Yorkers, and advocates to ensure speedy passage of this legislation.
• Invest resources in educating tenants and landlords about their rights surrounding evictions, with an emphasis on neighborhoods with low-density (1-4 units) housing stock.

California, Oregon, Washington, New Jersey, and other major cities and states have already given tenants and communities the right to remain.