New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced plans to revive and expand the state's rent relief program in response to rising infection numbers and falling economic fortunes, according to Crain's New York Business. While the state this summer allocated $100 million to rent relief via the Division of Homes and Community, as of October, only $23.2 million in relief had gone to some 9,600 households, with an additional $16.8 million in pending payments to distribute to 5,400 more households.

Lawmakers have assailed the program as not providing adequate relief for the millions of renters whom the pandemic thrust into an uncertain future. Right now, millions of unemployed Americans owe an average of $5,000 in back rent and utilities. Gothamist reported that one of the problem was that the requirements for relief were too narrow, as applicants must earn under 80 percent of the area median income, and rent prior to the pandemic must have been more than 30 percent of income; further, unemployment benefits could potentially disqualify renters for rent relief, despite the fact that those on unemployment are likely the ones most in need.

The governor said his executive order will expand the program's eligibility so that more rent relief can be provided to New Yorkers, but he did not provide any specifics. When more become available, The Trusted Professional will report on them.