NY A02332

Increases rent overcharge penalties from a fixed three times the overcharge amount to at least three times but not exceeding five times the overcharge amount under both state and New York City rent stabilization laws.

Applies penalty increase to housing accommodations in cities with populations under one million, towns, and villages where emergencies have been declared, as well as to all housing accommodations subject to New York City rent stabilization.

Maintains that voluntary adjustment of rent or refund of overcharges after a complaint is filed cannot be used as evidence that an overcharge was not willful.

Preserves the defense that owners who establish by preponderance of evidence that overcharges were neither willful nor negligent are liable only for the overcharge amount plus interest.

Takes effect immediately, with the New York City amendments expiring on the same date as the underlying rent stabilization law under section 26-520.