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Bill

Bill

S 6609

Relates to water contamination, lead paint and air quality testing in New York city housing authority buildings

2025 Regular Session Introduced by James Sanders and 1 co-sponsor

Bill S 6609 mandates water, lead paint, and air quality testing in NYCHA buildings, ensuring safer living conditions for residents, especially vulnerable populations.

REFERRED TO HOUSING, CONSTRUCTION AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
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Bill Summary · S 6609

Summary of Bill S 6609

Title: Relates to water contamination, lead paint and air quality testing in New York City housing authority buildings
Status: Referred to Housing, Construction and Community Development
Introduced: March 18, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 6609 aims to enhance the safety and health standards in housing authority buildings managed by the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA). The primary focus of the bill is to address critical issues related to water contamination, lead paint, and air quality, which have significant implications for the health and well-being of residents.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following key provisions:

  1. Water Contamination Testing:

    • Mandates regular testing of water supplies in NYCHA buildings to detect contaminants, including lead and other harmful substances.
    • Establishes a protocol for immediate notification to residents if contamination is detected.
  2. Lead Paint Assessment:

    • Requires comprehensive assessments of lead paint in all NYCHA properties, particularly in units occupied by children or vulnerable populations.
    • Implements a remediation plan for any identified lead hazards, ensuring safe living conditions.
  3. Air Quality Monitoring:

    • Introduces mandatory air quality testing in NYCHA buildings to monitor pollutants and allergens that could affect residents' health.
    • Sets standards for acceptable air quality levels and outlines steps for remediation if standards are not met.
  4. Reporting and Transparency:

    • Requires NYCHA to publish annual reports detailing the results of water, lead, and air quality tests, along with actions taken to address any issues.
    • Enhances transparency by making these reports accessible to the public and residents.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Residents of NYCHA Buildings: The bill directly impacts thousands of residents living in NYCHA-managed housing, particularly children and vulnerable populations who are at higher risk for health issues related to lead exposure and poor air quality.
  • NYCHA Management: The bill imposes new responsibilities and requirements on NYCHA, necessitating increased resources for testing and remediation efforts.
  • Public Health Officials: The bill may require collaboration with public health agencies to ensure compliance and effective implementation of health standards.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on March 18, 2025, and has been referred to the Housing, Construction and Community Development committee for further consideration.
  • This bill follows related legislation from prior sessions, including S 5053, S 5259, and S 4376, indicating ongoing legislative efforts to address housing safety and health concerns in New York City.

Conclusion

Bill S 6609 represents a significant step towards improving the living conditions in NYCHA buildings by addressing critical health risks associated with water contamination, lead paint, and air quality. If enacted, it would enhance the safety and well-being of residents, particularly those most vulnerable to environmental hazards.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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