The New York City Council on Thursday passed a sweeping package of legislation addressing issues ranging from criminal justice and housing to labor protections and even a resolution honoring the New York Knicks. The votes came during the final stated meeting for outgoing Speaker Adrienne Adams, signaling a shift in power at City Hall and within the Council itself.
Significant Legislation Approved
Among the bills approved were measures to increase the prevailing wage for construction workers on some affordable housing projects to a minimum of $40 per hour, establish “just cause” protections for for-hire vehicle and food delivery drivers, and expand licensing opportunities for street vendors. Lawmakers also approved a trio of bills regulating affordable housing development, drawing criticism from real estate groups.
Speaker Adams, whose term expires at the end of the year, spoke of her legacy, stating, “Our historic representation fully represented the breadth of New Yorker’s experience, allowing us to lead differently than our predecessors.” She also alluded to challenges during her leadership, saying, “Our city is only as strong as our people, and I am so proud of how we prioritized New Yorkers over the last four years when chaos in this building was all too present.”
Labor and Worker Protections
The Council overwhelmingly approved wage boosts and job protections. Developers of some city-funded affordable housing projects will now be required to pay workers a minimum combined wage and benefits package of $40 per hour. Gig workers, including those employed by Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, and Grubhub, will be shielded from account deactivation without “just cause” or for “bona fide economic reasons.” Drivers will also be allowed to park in unused commercial spaces for breaks.
Changes for Street Vendors and Affordable Housing
The Council approved the first expansion of street vendor permits since the 1970s, adding 10,500 new licenses for merchandise vendors in 2027 and 2,200 new food vending permits annually for the next five years. However, the approval of three bills regulating affordable housing development drew a strong rebuke from Mayor Eric Adams’ office, which called the measures “irresponsible actions” that would “add red tape, drive up rents, and deplete critical city resources.”
What’s Next?
Mayor Adams has until December 31st to veto any of the passed legislation. If he chooses not to veto the bills, they will automatically become law at the end of the year, even without his signature. The Mayor was reportedly in Mexico during the vote and has not yet announced his return to New York. With Council member Julie Menin poised to become the next Speaker, the incoming leadership will be tasked with implementing these new laws and navigating the potential challenges they present.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of bills were approved by the City Council on Thursday?
The Council approved bills related to criminal justice, housing construction, labor, street vendors, and even a resolution honoring the New York Knicks.
What is the Mayor’s response to the approved legislation?
A spokesperson for Mayor Eric Adams slammed the housing measures as “irresponsible actions” that will negatively impact the city.
When will the new legislation take effect?
The bills will become law at the end of the year if Mayor Adams does not veto them before December 31st.
How will these changes impact the lives of New Yorkers in the coming years?
