Gov. Hochul stated that “congestion pricing is legal” in a statement responding to Duffy’s letter, and said the MTA would continue to collect the tolls.
Proceeds from monies raised through ticket sales, sponsorships, and voting fundraising will be distributed by HGRF to charities and non-profits in the region.
The agreement gives Preston High School the option to renew its lease for successive five-year intervals at the end of the current 25-year lease term.
Realtors will also be advocating for broader housing solutions such as expanded workforce and affordable housing, zoning reforms, and incentives to accelerate commercial-to-residential conversions.
WHITE PLAINS—A contingent from the Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors will travel to Albany on April 29 for the annual Lobby Day, an essential opportunity for Realtors to engage directly with New York State lawmakers and advocate for policies that impact real estate professionals, property owners and renters across the Hudson Valley and beyond.
As trusted experts on the front lines of the housing market, HGAR members play a critical role in shaping smart, sustainable policy. This year, they are leading the charge on key legislative priorities, including the First-Time Homebuyer Savings Account Program, which would allow future homeowners to set up tax-deductible savings accounts for the purchase of a home. “Supporters say the initiative would provide much-needed financial relief for first-time buyers struggling to enter an increasingly competitive market,” said Alex Roithmayr, HGAR’s Government Affairs Director.
Realtors will also be advocating for broader housing solutions such as expanded workforce and affordable housing, zoning reforms, and incentives to accelerate commercial-to-residential conversions, including the legalization of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and basement apartments.
“Lobby Day is not just a day of meetings, it’s a powerful reminder that Realtors are a voice for property rights, housing opportunity, and economic growth,” added Roithmayr. “When Realtors show up, lawmakers listen.”
In addition, HGAR is supporting legislation that would require written buyer representation agreements between brokers and homebuyers. This measure would ensure greater transparency and clarity for consumers by outlining the scope of services provided by their real estate professionals, reinforcing trust and professionalism in the transaction process.
On the fair housing front, HGAR members are also advocating for reforms to co-op housing procedures. Specifically, they are pushing for legislation that would require co-op boards to adhere to standardized timelines for reviewing applications and to provide written explanations for any denials, steps designed to reduce discrimination and increase accountability.
Recognizing that housing discrimination continues to persist, HGAR is further backing initiatives aimed at combating bias in home appraisals, particularly racial disparities in property valuations. Strengthening oversight and enforcement in this area is essential to achieving equity in homeownership.
HGAR has consistently led the state in Realtor participation at Lobby Day, reflecting the organization’s deep commitment to advocacy. “With New York’s housing crisis continuing to dominate legislative discussions, HGAR members should be eager to make their voices heard in Albany,” added Roithmayr. “As Realtors, we are uniquely positioned to advocate for smart, fair policies that make homeownership more attainable and equitable for all New Yorkers.
Gov. Hochul stated that “congestion pricing is legal” in a statement responding to Duffy’s letter, and said the MTA would continue to collect the tolls.
Proceeds from monies raised through ticket sales, sponsorships, and voting fundraising will be distributed by HGRF to charities and non-profits in the region.
The agreement gives Preston High School the option to renew its lease for successive five-year intervals at the end of the current 25-year lease term.
The median rent has risen 20.2%, from $1,409 in March 2019 to $1,694 in March 2025.
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