(Joshua Paladino, Headline USA) As crime rates continue to skyrocket in New York City, embattled Democrat Mayor Eric Adams has thrown his likely support behind legislation banning landlords from performing criminal background checks on their potential tenants.
The New York City Council’s Committee on Civil Rights next week will consider the bill, known as the “Fair Chance for Housing Act,” which will put criminals on the same plane as law-abiding citizens in their housing search, Fox Business reported.
At least 30 New York City council members have announced their support for the bill, ensuring its passage in the 51-member chamber. And the mayor intends to help craft and implement the act once it becomes law.
“No one should be denied housing because they were once engaged with the criminal justice system, plain and simple,” a spokesperson for the mayor’s office said in a statement sent to Fox Business. “We will work closely with our partners in the City Council to ensure this bill has maximum intended impact.”
Republican Councilwoman Inna Vernikov said she opposes the bill because it will put the “safety of families” at risk.
“A bill which would prohibit landlords from conducting criminal background checks of potential tenants,” she tweeted. “Murered someone? Beat up your girlfriend? Robbed? Stabbed your neighbor? No problem. Come live among us!”
Democrats brushed aside concerns for regular families and citizens and instead urged sympathy for people convicted of violent crimes.
“Today is supposed to be a day of gratitude, not attacking,” Manhattan Democrat councilman Keith Powers responded to Vernikov’s tweet, which she posted the day before Thanksgiving.
Vernikov said she believes in “second chances” but also that landlords should have the right to see someone’s “rap sheet.”
Would you “be willing to rent a floor of your home to s/o who has a long rap sheet and history of burglarizing homes/assaulting people?,” she asked.
