Lewis introduces Intro 978 on SCRIE/DRIE income limits

Councilmember Lewis, followed by Wong.

Thank you.

Today I'm introducing Intro 978, a bill that will increase the qualifying income limit for seniors and persons with disabilities for the senior citizen rent increase exemption and the disability screen injury.

This bill is imperative to protect our most vulnerable populations from increasing housing costs and prevent displacement.

New York City faces a severe housing crisis, which is exacerbated by rent increases that threaten housing stability for New Yorkers.

Our seniors and neighbors with disabilities rely heavily on SCRI and DRI because many live on fixed incomes.

These programs allow our older adults to afford their daily essentials without having to choose between buying groceries, purchasing medicine, and paying for rent.

As of June 2026, New York City experienced another unprecedented housing price increase, with the median monthly rent being $5,295 in Manhattan compared to $4,350 in Brooklyn.

These escalating rent costs reflect a widening disparity of housing affordability.

Across the city.

We must protect our low-income residents from being priced out of neighborhoods they call home for decades.

This bill addresses the eligibility challenges we face as New Yorkers strengthening housing security for tenants, ultimately lowering tenant turnover for landlords and reducing eviction risk for

Homelessness is already a widespread issue in New York.

city and fewer affordable units will only increase shelter populations.

A recent report showing 26,000 applications were received for just 84 affordable senior housing units in the city.

It is important that we continue to protect our older adults and uniquely abled New Yorkers from experiencing traumatic displacement.

I urge my colleagues to support Intro 978.

Thank you.