A program meant to curtail discrimination in home rental and sale transactions in New York is receiving a $2.2 million expansion, Gov. Kathy Hochul's office on Friday announced.
The Fair Housing Testing Program sends undercover testers to pose as potential renters and home seekers. The money announced by Hochul will help expand investigations of suspected discrimination in housing as well as strengthen education and outreach efforts on rights for prospective renters and homebuyers.
"As we expand access to housing across New York State, I am using all of the resources at my disposal to combat housing discrimination and ensure that all New Yorkers are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect when seeking the housing of their choice," Hochul said. "Our investment in this crucial program sends a clear message: housing discrimination will not be tolerated here in New York."
The program was first established in 2021 and contracts with six non-profit organizations to test renting and homebuying in 48 counties in New York, including on Long Island, the Hudson Valley and the Capital Region as well as the five boroughs of New York City.
Testers act as potential tenants or purchasers to determine whether sellers, brokers or landlords are attempting to discriminate.
"Housing is an essential human right and we must continue to use every tool at our disposal to ensure that all New Yorkers have a fair and equal opportunity to live in the communities of their choice," New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said.