New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S06804

Introduced
3/24/25  
Refer
3/24/25  

Caption

Imposes a commercial vacancy tax on vacant or abandoned commercial storefronts located in a city with a population of one million or more of one percent of the assessed value of the property.

Summary

Bill S06804 proposes the imposition of a commercial vacancy tax on vacant or abandoned commercial storefronts in cities with a population of one million or more. The tax will be set at one percent of the assessed value of the property, effective from January 1, 2026. The bill defines a 'vacant or abandoned' storefront and outlines exceptions where properties would not be taxed, such as those with valid building permits or actively being marketed for sale or lease.

Impact

This legislation will introduce a new tax structure specifically targeting vacant commercial properties in large cities, aiming to reduce urban blight and encourage property owners to either lease or sell their vacant storefronts. It will affect property owners of commercial real estate in cities with populations exceeding one million, potentially leading to increased revenue for the state from the tax collected on these properties.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S06804 appears to be mixed, with proponents arguing that it will help revitalize urban areas and discourage property owners from leaving storefronts vacant. However, some stakeholders express concern that the tax may disproportionately affect small business owners and lead to unintended consequences, such as increased rents or reduced investment in commercial properties.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential financial burden on small business owners who may struggle to pay the tax on vacant properties, particularly in economically challenged areas. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the definition of 'vacant or abandoned' and how it may be enforced, with some arguing that it could lead to disputes over property conditions and compliance with local codes.

Companion Bills

NY A00669

Same As Imposes a commercial vacancy tax on vacant or abandoned commercial storefronts located in a city with a population of one million or more of one percent of the assessed value of the property.

Previously Filed As

NY S00339

Imposes a commercial vacancy tax on vacant or abandoned commercial storefronts located in a city with a population of one million or more of one percent of the assessed value of the property.

NY A00198

Imposes a commercial vacancy tax on vacant or abandoned commercial storefronts located in a city with a population of one million or more of one percent of the assessed value of the property.

NY A00669

Imposes a commercial vacancy tax on vacant or abandoned commercial storefronts located in a city with a population of one million or more of one percent of the assessed value of the property.

NY S09823

Enables any city having a population of one million or more to impose and collect taxes on vacant ground floor commercial premises.

NY S01539

Enables any city having a population of one million or more to impose and collect taxes on vacant ground floor commercial premises.

NY S02699

Enables any city having a population of one million or more to impose and collect taxes on vacant ground floor commercial premises.

NY A07556

Establishes a public online registry of vacant commercial storefronts; provides information to current and prospective small business owners seeking to purchase or lease a vacant storefront for a small business location.

NY S06626

Establishes a public online registry of vacant commercial storefronts; provides information to current and prospective small business owners seeking to purchase or lease a vacant storefront for a small business location.

NY S08653

Creates a vacant property classification for vacant and blighted properties; allows for cities with a population of one million or more to levy an additional real property tax on vacant and blighted properties with funds raised from such taxes being used to address homelessness.

NY SB00363

An Act Allowing Municipalities To Impose Commercial Vacancy Assessments In Certain Districts.

Similar Bills

NY A07556

Establishes a public online registry of vacant commercial storefronts; provides information to current and prospective small business owners seeking to purchase or lease a vacant storefront for a small business location.

NJ A4123

Establishes "Art in Storefronts" initiative within the "Main Street New Jersey" program.

NY S10236

Prohibits local laws from requiring certain storefront security gates or grilles comply with certain conditions; defines "storefront security gate or grille".

NY A11280

Prohibits local laws from requiring certain storefront security gates or grilles comply with certain conditions; defines "storefront security gate or grille".

NY S06626

Establishes a public online registry of vacant commercial storefronts; provides information to current and prospective small business owners seeking to purchase or lease a vacant storefront for a small business location.

CT HB06785

An Act Establishing A Revolving Loan Fund To Assist In Developing Commercial Storefronts.

CA AB2697

Cannabis: drive-throughs.

NJ A2586

Vacant Storefront Registry Program; establishes public database of vacant commercial space for small businesses.