NY A01874

Allows public welfare officials to withhold rent payments to landlords when the property has legally uncontested outstanding real estate taxes.

Requires tax information from appropriate departments or agencies to be provided to welfare departments upon request.

Creates a valid legal defense for welfare recipients in eviction or non-payment proceedings if the landlord has unpaid real estate taxes on the property, protecting them from eviction during tax delinquency periods.

Permits welfare departments to resume rent payments once the outstanding taxes are paid in full or subject to an agreed payment plan.

Updates gender-neutral language throughout the Social Services Law section 143-b regarding rent payment withholding procedures.