S8078

The Senate passed S8078, sponsored by Sen. Hoylman-Sigal, amending the Multiple Dwelling Law to allow residential units converted from commercial buildings to satisfy window requirements through mechanical ventilation systems rather than openable windows. The bill passed 37-20, with significant opposition from upstate and Long Island senators. Sen. Hoylman-Sigal argued the measure will reduce developer costs by 35 percent and facilitate housing conversion in Manhattan, citing examples from Chicago and San Francisco. However, Sen. Palumbo opposed the bill, expressing concern that its statewide language removes local control over window requirements for smaller buildings where egress and safety concerns may apply. Sen. Rhoads similarly argued the bill makes sense for New York City but not for other jurisdictions. Sen. Rivera clarified the bill applies only to New York City. Voting against were Sens. Ashby, Borrello, Bynoe, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Chan, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Lanza, Mattera, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Rolison, Stec, Tedisco, Walczyk, and Weik. The measure takes effect 90 days after becoming law.

The New York State Senate passed Senate Print 8078, sponsored by Sen. Sanders, an act to amend the Environmental Conservation Law. The bill received 61 affirmative votes with no recorded opposition. The measure, which takes effect on the same date and in the same manner as a chapter of the Laws of 2023, was called for a roll call vote and approved without debate during the chamber's floor session.