Enacts the "public housing safety and security act of 2012"

BILL NUMBER:S5284A

Title of bill

An act to amend the public housing law, in relation to enacting the "public housing safety and security act of 2012"

Purpose or general idea of bill

This omnibus bill would create a new Article 12-A in the state public housing law by enacting several different statutes designed to increase security at public housing units throughout the state. In addition, the bill would set up a grant program, to be administered under the discretion of the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal for use in increasing security and safety measures at public housing projects.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1 amends the public housing law by adding a new Article 12-A. Section 310 allows for the act to be cited as the "public housing safety and security act of 2009." Section 311 outlines legislative findings. Section 312 provides that, in accordance with the provisions of this article, the division may issue grants to public housing authorities or agencies to be used for the improvement of security in public housing projects. Section 313 outlines the applications process. Section 315 requires DHCR to make biannual inspections of all public housing units in the state to ensure basic and core security features of buildings are operational. Section 316 enacts a new statute requiring the DHCR to submit an annual report to the legislature on the state of public housing in New York.

Existing law

Article 12 of the public housing law currently outlines a program similar to this that attempts to combat the widespread use of drugs and drug dealing in public housing projects. However, current law does not attempt to combat other serious crimes such as robbery and rape that occur in public housing in New York State.

There is no law that requires DHCR to conduct biannual inspection of public housing units throughout the state. In addition, the state does not require a report on this issue be drafted and forwarded to the legislature for review.

Justification

It is positive to note that crime in public housing has decreased. However, crime committed in government subsidized housing projects remains greater than the rest of New York City housing establishments. Recent crime statistics reflected that 11 % of murders, 11% of rapes and 16% of shootings were committed in public housing projects, yet they only house five percent of the population of New York City. These facilities do not receive a proportionate

amount of the security patrol coverage available. The current security measures are inadequate. In 2005, a study by the New York City Council found that a trespasser could successfully access a New York City Housing Authority building by the front door nearly 50% of the time without a key or entry card. This bill will authorize grants that enable creative innovation of security measures that enhance the safety of these public facilities and provide these residents with the dignity and safety that they deserve.

Prior legislative history

2011: S.5284 Referred to Housing A.7674 - Referred to Housing 2010: A.4458 Referred to Housing 2007: A.9987 Died in Housing

Fiscal implications

A five million dollar appropriation from the general fund will be used to implement this program.

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the one hundred eightieth day after is shall have become law.