Councilmember Narcisse's bill pushes for amendments to short-term rental rules

Many of New York City's small homeowners view the supplemental income they could make renting out their property with third-party booking platforms, like Airbnb, as a “lifeline.” Especially, considering the dual issues of skyrocketing housing and affordability costs.

- By ARIAMA C. LONG Amsterdam News Staff

Councilmember Mercedes Narcisse (center) was joined by Harlem homeowners, the New York State NAACP Chris Alexander (center right), and housing advocates in Harlem on Oct. 31. (Ariama C. Long photos)

(Ariama C. Long photos)

A coalition of Black electeds and housing advocates, with the backing of Airbnb, are pushing to pass legislation to amend the short-term rental (STR) laws in the city.

“You know how difficult it is in New York City to own your home? The tenants, the taxes,” said Councilmember Mercedes Narcisse, who is the bill sponsor for Intro. 948. This bill would increase the number of people allowed to stay in short-term rentals in oneand two-family homes, and allow homeowners to have guests without being physically present at the property. It would also address the ‘unlocked doors provision,’ similar to Councilmember Farah Louis’ bill Intro. 1107.

Narcisse, a former nurse, said she worked three jobs while raising her children as a single mother to afford her mortgage. There are plenty of homeowners in her community in Canarsie that are similarly situated and barely making ends meet, she said.