The Senate Standing Committee on Judiciary convened on May 20, 2025, to discuss several legislative proposals, with significant focus on rental agreements and real estate regulations.

One of the primary topics was the concerns raised by the Rental Dealers Association regarding a bill that could impact the lease-to-own market for personal property, such as appliances and furniture. Members expressed worries that the proposed legislation might create confusion and contradictions with existing regulations under New York's personal property law. The committee acknowledged the potential adverse effects on consumers, particularly those with limited credit options, such as young families. The intent of the bill is to reduce the maximum charge rental dealers can impose, but there are fears it could ultimately price some consumers out of the market.

Another key discussion centered on proposed changes to civil practice laws, specifically regarding the disclosure of generative artificial intelligence in legal actions. Some committee members suggested that attorneys should be required to certify the accuracy of documents submitted in litigation, emphasizing the importance of accountability in legal processes.

The committee also reviewed a bill related to residential real estate inspections, which would mandate a 10-day window for inspections. Concerns were raised about the practicality of this requirement in competitive real estate markets, where properties often receive multiple offers within a short timeframe. Critics argued that such a mandate could jeopardize deals and lead to increased costs for buyers and sellers alike.

The meeting concluded without formal recommendations on several bills, indicating ongoing discussions and the need for further consideration of the implications of these legislative changes. The committee's deliberations highlight the complexities of balancing consumer protection with market realities in New York's evolving legal landscape.