“The first bill before me today is Introductory Number 410, sponsored at my request by Council Members Baez, Comrie, Jennings, Koppell, Lopez, Nelson, Reed, Reyna, Seabrook, Sears, Stewart, Vann, Provenzano, Recchia, Jr., Gonzalez, Dilan, Brewer, Felder, Espada, Oddo, Lanza, Gallagher and the Public Advocate Gotbaum.

“The Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) program was established in 1974 to help low-income senior citizens living in Rent Controlled and Rent Stabilized apartments remain in their homes by authorizing exemptions from increases in rent.  The financial burden of the rising cost of living on seniors becomes especially onerous when there is a permanent loss in household income, due to the death of a spouse or the permanent relocation of a household member to a long-term care facility.

“Currently, when a SCRIE recipient suffers a permanent loss in income, he or she may only apply for redetermined benefits at the time of their recertification for SCRIE benefits, or one year after the recertification date. 

“Introductory Number 410 would allow eligible SCRIE recipients to apply immediately for a redetermination of their benefits, which will be a significant help to individuals at the time of their greatest need.  This bill will allow the Department for the Aging to better serve those households in crisis.  It continues my commitment to secure rent protection for low-income seniors. 

“I would like to especially thank Council Member Baez and her counsel, Cheree Buggs, for their efforts in shepherding this bill through the City Council.”