S 9847 New York Senate · 2025 Regular Session

Relates to providing tenants with the option to execute leases electronically

This bill allows tenants and renters to choose to sign leases and related rental documents electronically instead of using paper. The law states that these digital copies will have the same legal weight as traditional paper originals, provided the option is offered during the initial signing or renewal process. However, the electronic option does not apply to official court notices or legal service of process. The legislation takes effect immediately upon passage.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Apr 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Apr 8, 2026 Last action May 4, 2026
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What changed between versions

S9847 S9847A · 3 edits
MINOR
The bill was amended to change the language regarding electronic lease execution from a mandatory 'right' for tenants to a discretionary 'option' for landlords to offer. This shift removes the guarantee that tenants can unilaterally demand electronic leases, instead making it a choice available only if the landlord agrees to provide it.
Scope change
The applicability of the electronic lease provision changed from a tenant-centric right to a landlord-centric option, meaning tenants can no longer force electronic signing if the landlord refuses.
ELIGIBILITY

Changed the tenant's ability to execute leases electronically from a guaranteed 'right' to a conditional 'option' offered by the landlord.

REQUIREMENT

Replaced the phrase 'shall be given the right' with 'may be given the option,' altering the legal obligation on landlords to provide electronic signing capabilities.

TECHNICAL

Minor formatting adjustments to the bill header and committee discharge instructions.

Floor votes

How they voted

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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
3
Key actions
2
Committee
1
Amendments
2
May 4, 2026
Upper · Passed
PRINT NUMBER 9847A
upper
May 4, 2026
Upper · Passed
AMEND (T) AND RECOMMIT TO JUDICIARY
upper
Apr 8, 2026
Committee
REFERRED TO JUDICIARY
upper
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Zellnor Myrie
Zellnor Myrie
DDemocratic
NY
20