Saratoga Standard

Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh: There is No Good in ‘Good Cause Eviction’

Apr 10 2024

Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R,C-Ballston) spoke at a press conference in the New York State Capitol today to reinforce opposition to ‘good cause eviction’ being included in the final state budget agreement. Walsh, along with Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R,C-Pulaski), Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt (R,C-North Tonawanda), and Sen. Pam Helming (R,C-Finger Lakes), led the press conference.

Walsh expressed concerns about the potential implementation of 'good cause eviction' laws, stating, "Proposals like ‘good cause eviction’ have proven ineffective elsewhere and would have detrimental effects if implemented in our state. Here in New York, we already have robust tenant protections." She highlighted the importance of considering the broader needs of the state and addressing the housing crisis without compromising property owners' rights.

The Assemblywoman emphasized the need to support the free market to increase the housing stock, stating, "We should be incentivizing new construction in New York to get developers to build new housing, not enforcing rent control for the rest of the state." Walsh firmly stated, "Governor Hochul: don’t make a bad situation worse by passing this law, there is no good in ‘good cause eviction.’"

The opposition to 'good cause eviction' laws stems from concerns raised by property owners, business owners, chambers of commerce, and organizations statewide, who fear that such laws could curtail property owner rights, deter housing investment, and lead to excessive market interference. The experience of Minnesota with similar legislation, which resulted in a significant decrease in building permits, project delays, and job losses, serves as a cautionary tale for New York.

In conclusion, Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh's stance against 'good cause eviction' underscores the need to prioritize solutions that support the housing market's growth while protecting the rights of property owners.