The New York City Council approved legislation on Sept. 24 aimed at expanding access to Fair Fares, supporting affordable housing, protecting homeowners and improving access to government services.
The measures include a streamlined Fair Fares enrollment process, an extension of the J-51 tax incentive, new funding for homeowner assistance and cultural recognitions.
Under the Fair Fares legislation, eligible New Yorkers renewing SNAP or cash assistance will be able to consent to using information from those applications to enroll in Fair Fares.
“Fair Fares is an indispensable program, and yet it’s underutilized because of a lack of awareness and a complicated application process," said Speaker Julie Menin. "The legislation we passed today, spearheaded by Council Member Hudson, will mandate a streamlined enrollment process so that eligible New Yorkers are able to ride public transit at a price that doesn’t empty their pockets.”
The city will also work with state agencies to identify additional residents who may qualify. Separately, the Fiscal Year 2027 budget increases Fair Fares eligibility from 150 percent to 200 percent of the federal poverty level, potentially bringing discounted subway, bus and paratransit fares to about 1.3 million New Yorkers.
Housing measures include an extension of the J-51 tax abatement for qualifying improvements completed between June 30, 2026 and June 30, 2036. Eligible co-ops, condos and certain rental buildings could recover up to 100 percent of qualifying costs over 20 years, subject to program requirements and tenant protections.
For Brooklyn, the Council also advanced zoning changes affecting Eastern Parkway and a proposed development at 862–868 Kent Ave. The Kent Ave. proposal would create 75 residential units, including 18 income-restricted homes, along with community facility space.
The Council also approved measures addressing unused commissary funds for people leaving Department of Correction custody and allocated $5.15 million for services helping homeowners address foreclosure, estate planning, tangled titles and deed theft.
Cultural resolutions will recognize Black Pride Month, African Immigrant Heritage Month and Korean Cultural Awareness Day.
Next steps include implementing the Fair Fares enrollment changes, developing J-51 program guidelines, monitoring enrollment and usage and reporting on implementation.
