Includes broadband access in the scoring and ranking criteria of the New York State low-income housing tax credit program

• Democratic3

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why James Skoufis says this is needed

The New York State Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (SLIHC) Program aims to enhance the availability of suitable, fully adapted, move-in-ready affordable housing units and improve neighborhood residents' quality of life and opportunities. Although high-speed broadband service is now essential to full partic- ipation in modern life, the current SLIHC rules do not include any requirements relating to broadband service availability at project locations. Many studies indicate that high-speed broadband is integral to improving economic development activity, expanding employment oppor- tunities, increasing property values, and generally improving the quali- ty of life for citizens. New York's affordable housing units should not be excluded from the benefits of access to high-speed fiber broadband internet service. Certain federal broadband grant programs already recognize fiber-optic architecture as a priority in providing broadband service because of the benefits and advantages of fiber technology. By adding fiber-optic broadband technology as a factor to consider in awarding grants under the SLIHC program, residents in affordable housing developments will be better positioned to take advantage of employment and educational opportunities and enjoy a better quality of life.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.