Scott Loffredo Quoted by amNewYork on Challenge to NYC Rent Freeze

Scott Loffredo, a partner in BBG’s Litigation Department, was recently quoted in an amNewYork article examining the lawsuit challenging the New York City Rent Guidelines Board’s decision to freeze rents for nearly one million rent-stabilized apartments.

In the article, Scott discussed the legal arguments advanced by landlords seeking to overturn the Rent Guidelines Board’s June determination. He described the lawsuit as “incredibly strong” and “legally sound,” while acknowledging that the petitioners face an uphill battle in convincing the court that the Board acted arbitrarily and capriciously.

Scott also questioned the petitioners’ argument that the rent freeze was politically predetermined. He explained that focusing on political influence could detract from what he considers a strong evidentiary record supporting the legal challenge.

The article also considered what could happen if the court overturns the rent freeze and directs the Rent Guidelines Board to reconsider its determination. Scott said the freeze would remain in effect for leases already signed, as well as those signed while the Board conducts a new review. He added that any rent increase subsequently adopted by the Board could apply prospectively to those leases, requiring tenants to pay the higher rent going forward. Scott also observed that the resulting disruption, including new proceedings, rent increases and changes affecting already-executed leases, could weigh on the court as it considers its decision.