Proposal Presented for the Master Plan For Aging (#115)
Disclaimer
Throughout the MPA process, more than 100 proposals were developed thanks in particular to thousands of hours of work by external stakeholders and members of the public. These proposals and the MPA Council commentary are being submitted to the Governor and shared with policymakers and the public to inform policymaking. These proposals represent a starting point for discussion. Further discussion is necessary between relevant state agencies and stakeholders to both refine these proposals and assess which may be appropriate to adopt and implement.
Summary
Multigenerational housing provides an opportunity to address intersectional concerns including but not limited to social isolation, housing costs, child-care costs, and household costs. Advocate for changes to federal regulations to amend the rules governing affordable housing eligibility, household size, and waiting lists to enable the formation of multigenerational housing.
Justification
Current requirements for applying for affordable housing and the identification of eligibility of unit size discourage multigenerational housing. Multigenerational housing provides an opportunity to address a number of intersectional concerns including but not limited to social isolation, housing costs, child-care costs, and household costs. Separately, the limited stock of affordable housing is further diminished by residents who no longer need a unit to accommodate children.
Full Proposal
Encourage the state to advocate for changes to federal regulations to accomplish the following:
- Amend rules governing affordable housing eligibility and household size to facilitate the formation of multigenerational households. Enable the housing of multigenerational families in 2–3-bedroom units next to a studio or 1 bedroom unit to better enable multigenerational housing.
- Give priority to residents of affordable housing units on waiting lists when they seek to downsize to a smaller unit.
MPA Council Commentary
This proposal is categorized as long-term. The rules referenced above are largely governed by federal requirements and regulations governing affordable housing tax credits and other federally-funded programs. New York would need to discuss changes to federal policy with our federal government representatives.