How Cuomo’s New Rent Control Proposal Confuses Affordability with Stability

If we tie rent regulation to income, we lose the policy's benefits for neighborhoods and their residents, Shelterforce argues

1 minute read

October 19, 2025, 7:00 AM PDT

By Shelterforce


Andrew Cuomo’s proposal to means-test rent-stabilized apartments in New York City misrepresents the policy’s purpose, argues Lauren E.M. Everett in Shelterforce. Rent stabilization isn’t an income-targeted program—it’s a stability program, ensuring predictable housing costs so tenants can put down roots and communities can thrive.

With 1 million rent-stabilized tenants in New York, the benefits extend beyond affordability, enabling residents to invest in their neighborhoods, participate in civic life, and stay connected over generations. Research and resident stories show that stability fosters stronger communities and healthier households.

Means-testing would undermine these outcomes, fraying neighborhood ties—missing the true intention of rent stabilization.

Friday, September 26, 2025 in Shelterforce Magazine

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