New York Constitution Article XVIII - Housing
New York Constitution – Article XVIII: Housing
Overview:
Article XVIII of the New York State Constitution addresses housing, specifically focusing on low-rent housing projects, slum clearance, and public aid to housing development. This article was added during the post-Great Depression era to enable government support in addressing poor housing conditions and urban development.
Key Sections of Article XVIII:
§1 – Housing and slum clearance as public purpose:
Declares that the provision of low-rent housing and slum clearance is a public use and public purpose.
Allows the state and its subdivisions to develop or aid in developing housing for people of low income.
§2 – Aid for housing for persons of low income:
Authorizes the state or municipalities to loan, grant, or subsidize money for housing construction or improvement for low-income residents.
§3 – State advances for municipal housing projects:
Permits the state to make advances or loans to cities, towns, or villages for the construction of low-rent housing or slum clearance.
§4 – State debt for housing and urban renewal:
Allows the state to contract debt (issue bonds) up to a limited amount to support housing or urban renewal programs.
§5 – Terms of aid and loans:
Sets conditions for loans and subsidies, including repayment periods and interest rates, to ensure proper use of public funds.
§6 – Restrictions on use of funds:
Prohibits the use of housing funds for non-related purposes.
Ensures funds are used only for housing and urban renewal, including public and private developments.
§7 – Authorization to acquire and dispose of property:
Permits municipalities and housing authorities to acquire, manage, lease, or sell property in connection with housing or slum clearance projects.
§8 – Preference for veterans:
Provides preference in low-rent housing to qualified veterans and their families.
Purpose and Impact:
Article XVIII reflects New York’s constitutional commitment to safe and affordable housing. It empowers both the state and local governments to actively participate in housing development, particularly benefiting low-income individuals and veterans. It also legally justifies the use of public funds and land for housing-related projects.
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