NYC renters on edge over rent regulation expiration date

HARLEM (WABC) -- With rent regulations set to expire in just nine days, Mayor Bill de Blasio and others gathered for a rally in Harlem on Saturday, calling on state lawmakers to show and prove - to prove this issue is a priority. He also wants state lawmakers to prove they understand the need for continued rent and controlled units, and to prove their compassion for the frustrated millions who rely on affordable housing in New York City.

"People being pushed out of the neighborhoods they love, the neighborhoods they helped to build, and we will not stand for it, will we?" said Mayor de Blasio.

According to Mayor de Blasio, 56 percent of New York City residents are struggling to keep their homes in neighborhoods where thousands of rent controlled apartments have been lost. While Governor Andrew Cuomo is on board with strengthening the laws restricting rent increases, the two have differed on just how far the new tenant protections should go.

Governor Cuomo, for the first time, called for an end to the provision that allows rent-regulated apartments to be deregulated if their rents are at least $2,500 upon vacancy. However, other leaders such as Charles Rangel say they want to see more done.

"Why in the hell are we giving tax breaks to luxury housing when we don't need it? What we do need is decent housing for decent people who love America and who love New York City," said Congressman Rangel.

Now, with the end of the legislative session just days away, and the fate of nearly 2 million city residents hanging in the balance, all eyes are on Albany.

Governor Cuomo said in a New York Daily News op-ed piece Saturday that he will call legislators into session every day until they strengthen and extend tenant protections.