Queens Lawmakers On The Move De.15, 2017

Queens County City Council News

Peralta Unveils Legislation Calling for Tenants’ Tax Relief    

State Senator Jose Peralta

State Sen. Jose Peralta (D-Corona, East Elmhurst, Elmhurst, Jackson Heights and Woodside) yesterday introduced legislation that will provide a tax credit for tenants by increasing the eligibility levels of the current real property tax circuit breaker.

Under the proposal, the maximum household income eligibility for tenants and homeowners will increase from the current $18,000 to a $75,000 ceiling. The actual tax circuit breaker was established about 30 years ago. Additionally, the overall credit amount and property value will also increase.

“This is a much-needed property tax credit for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers who day after day juggle to make ends meet. Clearly, this direct tax relief means more money in the pockets of hard-working tenants,” said Peralta. “As the cost of living and the rate of inflation increase, we must ensure the existing tax relief measures keeps up with the pace.”

According to the Senator’s proposal, the eligibility level of the property value will increase from $85,000 to $200,000, and the tax credit will be set at a maximum of $800 for New Yorkers more than 65 years of age, and $400 for people 65 or younger.

“My legislation will bring the outdated tax relief structure, finally, into the 21st Century. Tenants pay property taxes through their rents, and since a big chunk of their salary, unfortunately, goes toward rent, we should help them by providing this rebate,” said Peralta.


Ulrich, TDF Partner To Give Vets Free Broadway Show Tickets

City Council Member Eric Ulrich

City Council Member Eric Ulrich (R-Belle Harbor, Breezy Point, Broad Channel, Hamilton Beach, Howard Beach, Lindenwood, Neponsit, Ozone Park, Rockaway Beach, Rockaway Park, South Ozone Park, Woodhaven) and the The Theatre Development Fund (TDF) has partnered to launch a new pilot program city veterans free Broadway show tickets.

Those eligible for the tickets include the City’s former servicemen and women of all ages who have served in any branch of the armed forces.  

Thanks to funding from Ulrich, TDF will offer a limited number of free tickets to such shows as Like A Bronx Tale, Beautiful, Chicago, Come From Away, Kinky Boots, Miss Saigon & School of Rock.

The launch kickoff to the program is slated for 2:30 p.m., Sunday, December 17, prior to the 4 p.m. matinée of Miss Saigon, which 50 veterans and their families will attend at the Broadway Theatre, Lower Lobby, 1681 Broadway, between 52nd and 53rd Street in Times Square.


Crowley Calls For Gun Safety Legislation On Sandy Hook Anniversary

U.S. Representative Joe Crowley/via Facebook

U.S. Rep. and House Democratic Chairman Joe Crowley (D-Sunnyside, Astoria, College Point, East Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, Corona, Woodside, Parts of the Bronx) yesterday called on meaningful gun safety legislation of the on the fifth anniversary of the tragic shooting at the Sandy Hook Elementary School.

On Devc. 14, 2012, a gunman stormed the school in Newtown, CT, and shot dead  20 children and six educators.

“I will never forget the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting. It was one of the darkest, most difficult days we’ve seen as a nation. The lives lost were too young, too innocent, and absolutely irreplaceable,” said Crowley.

“While we will never fully ease the pain of the Sandy Hook community or the families who lost loved ones, we must honor their memory by enacting true and meaningful gun safety legislation. I am committed to that cause, and won’t back down until it becomes a reality.”