Justice Goetz’s ruling emphasizes the discriminatory nature of such policies, stating that they disproportionately affect voucher holders. He ruled that the nonprofit has standing to sue under both the New York State Human Rights Law and the New York City Human Rights Law.
NYC Real Estate Cos Voucher Bias Suit : Legal Standpoints
The judge dismissed arguments from the real estate companies that Housing Rights Initiative lacked standing to bring the suit because it wasn’t a voucher holder. Instead, Justice Goetz acknowledged the nonprofit’s efforts in testing and exposing discriminatory practices as a legitimate basis for standing.
Citing legal precedents such as the U.S. Supreme Court’s 1982 decision in Havens Realty Corp. v. Coleman, Justice Goetz affirmed that organizations confronting discrimination through resource-draining activities have standing to pursue legal action.
Reaction and Progress
Representatives from Proper Real Estate and 86-31 57th Avenue did not respond to requests for comment following the ruling. However, Housing Rights Initiative’s counsel expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, highlighting the importance of organizations having standing to combat discrimination effectively.
