New York Assembly Bill A04212

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/25
• Refer: 1/31/25
• Refer: 1/7/26

Caption

Relates to increasing fines for individuals who fail to comply with a stop work order; increases fines from $6,000 to $10,000 for initial violation and $12,000 to $20,000 for subsequent violations.

Summary

This bill amends section 28-207.2.6 of the New York City Administrative Code to increase civil penalties for failing to comply with a stop work order. Under the proposal, the penalty for an initial violation would rise from $6,000 to $10,000, and the penalty for each subsequent violation would rise from $12,000 to $20,000. The bill preserves the existing exception for work performed to remedy an unsafe or hazardous condition when authorized by the commissioner. The measure applies only within New York City’s building and construction enforcement framework and would change the amount of fines the Department of Buildings may assess before a stop work order is rescinded. It does not create a new enforcement mechanism, but it increases the financial consequences for violating an existing stop work order, likely affecting contractors, property owners, developers, and others responsible for construction sites subject to city enforcement.

Impact

The bill would amend the New York City Administrative Code to raise civil penalties tied to stop work order violations, increasing the city’s enforcement leverage over construction and building safety compliance. It would directly affect parties engaged in construction or renovation work in New York City by making noncompliance more costly, while leaving intact the commissioner’s authority to allow remedial work for unsafe or hazardous conditions. The bill takes effect 90 days after becoming law.

Sentiment

Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee debate or votes, the overall sentiment appears to be supportive of stronger enforcement and deterrence against stop work order violations. The sponsor’s framing suggests a policy preference for higher penalties to encourage compliance with building safety orders. No opposing arguments, amendments, or recorded vote history are provided in the available materials.

Contention

The main point of contention likely concerns whether the proposed penalty increases are proportionate and effective. Supporters would view the higher fines as necessary to deter willful violations and protect public safety, while critics might argue that the increases are excessive, could burden smaller contractors or property owners, or may not distinguish adequately between intentional defiance and practical delays in compliance. No specific objections or named opponents appear in the provided record.