Council Member Banks introduces bills on HPD electronic registration and press credential due process

Councilmember Banks, followed by Hanif.

Thank you, Mr.

Majority Leader.

Today I'm proud to introduce bills, intros 1023 and intro 1024, that focuses on modernization, transparency, and accountability in city government.

The first bill would allow property owners to register their properties with HPD electronically, including submitting required documents and electronic signatures and filing fees online.

This legislation was developed in response to concerns raised by property owners and advocates about HPD's paper-based registration process.

My office heard repeated complaints from the owners who submitted paperwork on time, only to be told later that it could not be located and had to be resubmitted, sometimes even when sent by certified mail.

As one owner put it, HPD never loses the $13 in filing fees, but they always lose the paperwork.

This bill creates a more efficient and reliable process by allowing registration to be completed online and reducing paperwork delays and the risk of lost submissions.

I want to first of all thank Spony and small business property owners in New York for their participation and advocacy for this legislation.

And also I want to thank Chair Perina Sanchez for allowing this bill to be passed.

be heard in committee.

I also want to thank the Speaker for her amazing leadership as well.

I'm also introducing Intro 1024, which will establish a clear and fair process for suspending or revoking press credentials.

Under this bill, the city would be required to show evidence at an oath hearing before a press credential can be suspended or revoked.

This bill would allow also required the mayor's office of media and entertainment to review its current rules to determine whether updates are needed to make the process more transparent and consistent and fair.

I urge all my colleagues to sign on.

Thank you, Majority Leader.

Thank you, Councilmember.