NYC Landlords Brace as Judge Clears Broker Fee Ban
Court Upholds FARE Act as Legal Challenges Fall Short Despite fierce opposition from the real estate industry, New York City's controversial broker fee ban has cleared a major legal hurdle. A federal judge denied efforts to block its implementation. Judge Ronnie Abrams rejected the Real Estate Board of New York's request for a preliminary injunction against the FARE Act. This decision allows the transformative legislation to proceed as scheduled. The court ruling marks a significant victory for tenant advocates. It also delivers a crushing blow to industry hopes of derailing the measure. The judge dismissed multiple claims challenging the law's constitutionality. These included arguments that it violates First Amendment protections and faces state law preemption. Only a narrow Contract Clause claim remains active in REBNY's ongoing lawsuit. Judge Abrams advised opponents to seek remedies through political channels rather than courtroom battles. The legal implications ex...