Mamdani criticizes Cuomo in a heated argument over rent-stabilized housing during a stop on an anti-Trump tour
In the midst of the New York City mayoral race, a housing proposal named "Zohran's Law" has been put forward by independent candidate Andrew Cuomo. The proposal aims to prevent high-income individuals from renting newly vacant rent-stabilized apartments in the city[1][2][4][5].
Under this law, landlords would be barred from renting vacant rent-stabilized units to tenants whose rent payments amount to less than 30% of their income, effectively means-testing prospective tenants to prioritize those who truly need affordable housing[1][2]. The policy is designed to protect rent-stabilized housing from wealthier tenants who are perceived to be abusing the system by occupying these affordable units[1].
However, the proposal has faced significant skepticism and opposition. Tenant advocates argue it creates unnecessary bureaucracy and could complicate housing searches amid an already difficult market[1]. Some housing experts are doubtful about the practicality of setting a 30% rent-to-income cap as a strict criterion, as it could exclude many potential renters[5].
Political insiders suggest the bill is unlikely to gain support in the New York State Legislature, with some officials labeling it impractical or low priority[1][4]. The proposal has also been politically charged, with Cuomo naming it after his mayoral opponent, Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, who currently lives in a rent-stabilized apartment while running for mayor[2][3][4].
Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic mayoral nominee, has questioned the character of Cuomo's policy proposal and its potential impact on New Yorkers[6]. Mamdani is currently on a week-long tour titled "Five Boroughs Against Trump," focusing on opposing President Donald Trump's agenda and his "authoritarian" approach towards working New Yorkers[7].
The White House has also criticized Mamdani's immigration reform ideas, claiming they would result in no borders and amnesty for violent criminal illegal aliens[8]. Meanwhile, Mamdani's campaign website states that as mayor, he would use every available resource to build the housing New Yorkers need and bring down the rent[9].
On Tuesday, Mamdani held his second anti-Trump event of the week at the Flatbush Gardens Community Center in Brooklyn, with a focus on housing[10]. The Cuomo campaign has clarified that "Zohran's law" would only apply to vacant apartments[1].
As of August 2025, the legislative future and practical implementation of "Zohran’s Law" appear uncertain due to political and logistical challenges[1][4][5].
Sources:
- New York Post
- CBS New York
- Gothamist
- Politico
- The City
- Zohran Mamdani Campaign Website
- Zohran Mamdani Campaign
- White House Press Briefing
- Zohran Mamdani Campaign Website
- Brooklyn Daily Eagle
Contributors: Deirdre Heavey (Digital), Marly Carroll, Bryan Llenas.
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