NY S03686

Establishes a Bureau of the Senior Tenants' Advocate within the Office for the Aging to help senior tenants resolve complaints related to the Division of Housing and Community Renewal, landlord disputes, rent increases, and other housing matters

The Governor appoints the Senior Tenants' Advocate, who must have expertise in landlord-tenant law, reports directly to the Office for the Aging director, and may appoint representatives to assist with duties

Requires the advocate to review complaints, immediately determine the appropriate agency for referral, forward complaints accordingly, and notify tenants where their complaints were sent

Prohibits retaliatory discrimination against any tenant who files a complaint with the Senior Tenants' Advocate or provides testimony or cooperation in connection with a complaint

Mandates an annual report to the Governor, legislative leaders, and the public analyzing complaint data, evaluating recurring problems, and recommending legislation or actions to protect senior tenants' rights

Takes effect 180 days after becoming law, with immediate authorization to develop implementing regulations